gau2 sing4 gau2九成九
Jyutpinggau2 sing4 gau2
Yalegáu sìhng gáu
Definition
Ninety-nine percent; highly likely or almost certain.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Use this phrase to express a very high degree of certainty, functioning like a stronger version of probably. It is common to pair it with 係 to emphasize a strong suspicion about a situation or person's behavior. While it literally translates to ninety-nine percent, it is used idiomatically to mean almost definitely.
Examples
He most likely forgot about it.
It is almost certain to rain tomorrow, bring an umbrella.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe actual percentages in mathematical or scientific contexts, as it is strictly an idiomatic expression for high probability. It is also not appropriate for formal writing or professional reports.
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.
