cyun1川
Jyutpingcyun1
Yalechyūn
Definition
River.
neutralnature
How it's used
川 is primarily a literary or classical morpheme in Cantonese rather than a word used in everyday speech to refer to a river. While it appears in geographical names or poetic descriptions, locals almost exclusively use 河 or 河流 for general conversation. It is most commonly encountered by learners as part of compound nouns like 冰川 or 四川.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 川 as a standalone noun in casual conversation, as it will sound overly formal or archaic. Always prefer 河 when talking about a river in daily life.
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.
