do1 bun3多半
Jyutpingdo1 bun3
Yaledō bun
Definition
Most likely; probably; in most cases.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Expresses a high degree of probability or likelihood regarding a situation. While it functions similarly to 'probably' in English, it carries a slightly more analytical or observational tone compared to more casual alternatives like 應該. It is frequently used when making an educated guess based on past patterns or current evidence.
Examples
He probably won't come back for dinner today.
Why do you think he is probably unhappy?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 應該, but 多半 implies a stronger sense of certainty or a higher statistical probability. Avoid using it for simple personal opinions where 覺得 or 應該 would sound more natural.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
