gai3 tiu4 sou3計條數计条数
Jyutpinggai3 tiu4 sou3
Yalegai tìuh sou
Definition
To make a calculation; to reckon up.
colloquialmoneydaily actions
How it's used
Using 計條數 often implies a sense of careful deliberation or weighing pros and cons rather than just performing basic arithmetic. It is frequently used when someone is assessing whether a venture is worthwhile or if a budget will hold up under pressure. The phrase carries a pragmatic tone, highlighting the importance of being realistic about financial or logistical outcomes.
Examples
Business is tough lately, need to do the math to see how much is earned.
Related words
Common phrases
to work out the final figure
to calculate the amount clearly
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal request to perform a math problem, but it is almost exclusively used in contexts involving money, resources, or strategic planning. Do not use it for simple school math problems, where just using 計數 is more appropriate.
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.
