gong2 gu3講故讲故
Jyutpinggong2 gu3
Yalegóng gu
Definition
To tell a story.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
Often implies spinning a yarn or embellishing the truth rather than just narrating a formal story. It carries a nostalgic or informal tone, frequently associated with elders sharing life experiences or folklore with younger generations. When used in a skeptical context, it suggests the speaker is making things up or exaggerating.
Examples
Grandpa loves sitting there telling us stories.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the formal term 講故事, which sounds more like reading a book to a child. Using 講故 in a professional or academic setting will sound overly casual or dismissive.
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.
