gong1 gong1剛剛刚刚
Jyutpinggong1 gong1
Yalegōng gōng
Definition
Just now; a moment ago, or barely; just enough.
- just; just now; a moment ago
- barely; only; just enough
colloquialtime
How it's used
While 剛剛 is understood in Hong Kong, the native Cantonese form 啱啱 is overwhelmingly preferred in spoken communication. Using 剛剛 can sound slightly formal or like a direct translation from written Chinese. It is best to stick to 啱啱 for natural, everyday conversation.
Related words
Common phrases
just right
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 啱啱 with 剛剛好, which means exactly right or just enough. Remember that 啱啱 functions as a time adverb, whereas 剛剛好 describes a state of sufficiency or precision.
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.
