cung1 ming4聰明聪明
Jyutpingcung1 ming4
Yalechūng mìhng
Definition
Intelligent, clever, or smart.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While 聰明 is the standard term for intelligence, it is frequently used in casual conversation to praise children or someone who learns a new skill quickly. It carries a positive connotation of being quick-witted rather than just having academic knowledge. When describing someone who is street-smart or cunning, locals might prefer using 醒目 instead.
Examples
Your son is so smart, he will definitely be successful in the future.
He is usually very smart, why did he make these mistakes today?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 聰明 to describe someone who is merely 'clever' in a manipulative or sneaky way, as that context often calls for 醒目 or 蠱惑.
Grammar color guide
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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.
