goeng1姜
Jyutpinggoeng1
Yalegēung
Definition
The Chinese surname Keung (or Jiang in Mandarin).
neutralpeople
How it's used
This surname is frequently romanized as Keung in Hong Kong, reflecting the Cantonese pronunciation. It is distinct from the word for ginger, which shares the same character but is a common noun. When addressing someone with this surname, it is standard to use the title followed by the surname, just like in English.
Examples
Mr. Keung will come to the meeting today.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this surname with the noun for ginger, which is also written as 姜. While the character is identical, the context of a person's name versus a cooking ingredient makes the distinction clear in speech.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
