gaak3 lei4隔籬隔篱
Jyutpinggaak3 lei4
Yalegaak lèih
Definition
Next door; next to; adjacent.
colloquialplaces
How it's used
This term functions as a spatial reference for something immediately adjacent or next door. It is significantly more common in spoken Cantonese than the more formal 旁邊. When referring to people, it often implies a sense of proximity that feels more personal or immediate than standard directional markers.
Examples
He lives in the house next to mine.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 隔籬屋 which specifically refers to the house or flat next door. Learners sometimes mistakenly use it as a direct translation for the English preposition 'beside' in abstract contexts where 側邊 is more appropriate.
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.
