gau2 jaa6 gei2九廿幾九廿几
Jyutpinggau2 jaa6 gei2
Yalegáu yah géi
Definition
In the nineties; a quantity, age, or number in the range of ninety to ninety-nine.
colloquialnumberspeople
How it's used
This expression is used to describe an approximate age range rather than a precise number. It specifically refers to the decade of the nineties, functioning similarly to saying someone is in their nineties in English. It is strictly colloquial and sounds very natural when discussing the elderly in casual conversation.
Examples
He is in his nineties this year and still very healthy.
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with exact numbers like 九十九. It implies a range, so it is imprecise by nature and should not be used when you need to state an exact age for formal or medical purposes.
Grammar color guide
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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.
