gai3 sou3計數计数
Jyutpinggai3 sou3
Yalegai sou
Definition
To calculate, do math, or solve mathematical problems.
colloquialschoolmoney
How it's used
Beyond the literal act of performing arithmetic, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who is shrewd or calculating with money. When someone is described as識計數, it implies they are good at managing their finances or looking out for their own interests. It carries a pragmatic tone, often highlighting a person's ability to weigh costs against benefits in daily life.
Examples
This problem is so hard, do you know how to calculate it?
He rarely calculates his finances, so he is always losing money.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin term 計算 which is more formal and used for general computation. In Cantonese, 計數 is the standard way to refer to doing math homework or calculating a sum, whereas using the formal version can sound stiff or overly academic in casual conversation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
