coi4 zi3才智
Jyutpingcoi4 zi3
Yalechòih ji
Definition
Ability and wisdom; intelligence and talent.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to a combination of intellectual capacity and practical skill, often used in formal or literary contexts to describe someone's potential or achievements. While it sounds sophisticated, it is rarely used in casual, everyday small talk because it carries a slightly elevated, evaluative tone.
Examples
At such a young age, he has already shown exceptional ability and wisdom.
Is relying on ability and wisdom alone enough to succeed in this industry?
Related words
Common phrases
exceptional ability and wisdom
to display ability and wisdom
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 聰明, which is a common, everyday adjective for being smart or clever. Using 才智 in a casual conversation about a child or a simple task can sound overly dramatic or pretentious.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
