gong2 gu3 zai2講故仔讲故仔
Jyutpinggong2 gu3 zai2
Yalegóng gu jái
Definition
To tell a story or engage in storytelling.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Refers specifically to the act of telling a narrative, often used for bedtime stories or tall tales. It carries a slightly informal, warm, or even skeptical tone depending on context. When used to mean someone is lying or exaggerating, it implies the person is spinning a yarn rather than being malicious.
Examples
Grandpa loves telling stories by the bedside for me to listen to.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this for formal presentations or professional speeches, as it implies a casual or imaginative nature that does not fit a business setting.
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.
