gei1 sou3基數基数
Jyutpinggei1 sou3
Yalegēi sou
Definition
Cardinal number.
neutralnumbersschool
How it's used
Primarily used in academic or formal mathematical contexts rather than daily casual conversation. It functions as a technical term to categorize numbers that represent quantity, contrasting with ordinal numbers which denote position or order.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Count how many cardinal numbers are in this pile of money.
The math class taught how to distinguish between cardinal and ordinal numbers.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the term for base numbers in a positional numeral system, which is also written as 基數 in some contexts. Ensure the context clearly distinguishes between counting numbers and the base of a number system.
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.
