duk6 cyu2獨處独处
Jyutpingduk6 cyu2
Yaleduhk chyú
Definition
To be alone; to spend time in solitude.
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How it's used
While 獨處 is a standard term, it carries a slightly formal or introspective tone compared to the more common colloquial way of saying someone is alone, which is 自己一個. It is often used when describing a deliberate choice to seek solitude for mental clarity or rest, rather than just being physically unaccompanied. You will frequently hear it in contexts involving emotional well-being or personal space.
Examples
I really like to be alone for a while when I am free.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 獨處 as a direct translation for being lonely. However, 獨處 refers to the state of being alone by choice or circumstance, whereas feeling lonely is better expressed as 寂寞 or 孤單.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
