faan4 si6凡是
Jyutpingfaan4 si6
Yalefàahn sih
Definition
Every; any; all; whoever; whatever; as long as it is.
neutralother
How it's used
Functions as a formal conjunction that introduces a condition or a universal set. While it appears in written Chinese, it is also used in spoken Cantonese to emphasize a rule or a general truth that applies to every single instance of a category.
Examples
Whatever is delicious, he likes it.
Whoever is late must be fined.
Related words
Common phrases
faan4凡si6是...dou1都...
whenever/whoever... (always)...
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual conversation to mean 'every time' or 'whenever' if you are referring to a specific past event, as it is strictly for generalizations or rules. Speakers often prefer using 只要係 for a more natural, conversational flow.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
