fan1 cing1分清
Jyutpingfan1 cing1
Yalefān chīng
Definition
To distinguish clearly; to tell apart.
colloquialdescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Focuses on the result of a cognitive process rather than the act of comparing itself. It implies that there was previously some confusion or ambiguity that has now been resolved. When used in a negative construction, it often highlights a persistent inability to tell things apart.
Examples
They look too similar, it is very hard to distinguish between them.
Related words
Common phrases
to distinguish right from wrong
to distinguish the primary from the secondary
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 分開, which means to separate or split things physically. Use 分清 when talking about mental clarity or distinguishing between abstract concepts, and use 分開 when talking about physical separation.
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.
