gan6 can1近親近亲
Jyutpinggan6 can1
Yalegahn chān
Definition
Close relative; a family member with close genetic ties.
neutralfamilypeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to individuals sharing a direct bloodline, such as parents, siblings, or children. It is often used in formal or legal contexts, such as discussing inheritance or medical history, rather than casual conversation about distant cousins. When speaking informally, people usually just specify the exact relationship like 阿哥 or 姑姐.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
They are close relatives, so they look very similar.
Which other close relatives of yours live in Hong Kong?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 親戚, which is a general term for any relative regardless of how distant they are. Using 近親 to describe a distant cousin or an in-law will sound unnatural and overly formal.
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.
