coi4 gon3才幹才干
Jyutpingcoi4 gon3
Yalechòih gon
Definition
Capability, competence, or talent.
neutralworkpeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to professional or practical ability rather than general talent or intelligence. It carries a formal tone often found in business or academic contexts, making it sound slightly more serious than using words like 能力. While it implies a high level of skill, it is rarely used in casual conversation to describe everyday tasks.
Examples
He is so capable at work, his promotion is only a matter of time.
What capabilities do you think he has to be qualified for this job?
Related words
Common phrases
outstanding competence
to demonstrate one's capability
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general word for talent, but it is heavily tied to workplace competence and professional output. Using it to describe simple hobbies or casual skills can sound overly formal or slightly unnatural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
