gan2謹谨
Jyutpinggan2
Yalegán
Definition
Careful, cautious, and solemn.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
Functions primarily as a formal morpheme rather than a standalone verb or adjective in spoken Cantonese. It is almost exclusively encountered in compound words like 謹慎 or 恭謹. Using it alone in casual conversation will sound unnatural or overly literary.
Examples
Be careful when you work, don't be so careless.
Are you being cautious in how you handle this matter?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use it as a direct substitute for 小心, but it lacks the versatility of the latter. While 小心 can be used as an imperative command, 謹 is restricted to formal contexts and fixed expressions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
