gin1 je5堅嘢坚嘢
Jyutpinggin1 je5
Yalegīn yéh
Definition
Real, authentic things; the genuine article.
colloquialdescriptionsslang
How it's used
Used to distinguish authentic items, genuine skills, or truthful statements from fakes or exaggerations. It carries a sense of streetwise credibility and is often used to challenge someone to prove their claims. When someone says something is 堅嘢, they are emphasizing that it has passed the test of quality or honesty.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in formal business or academic settings, as it is strictly colloquial and can sound overly casual or even aggressive depending on the tone. Do not confuse it with 堅, which is an adjective meaning 'tough' or 'hardcore'.
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.
