gu2 haa5估吓
Jyutpinggu2 haa5
Yalegú háh
Definition
To take a guess.
colloquialdaily actionscommunication
How it's used
The suffix 吓 functions as a softening particle that turns a direct command into a casual suggestion or invitation. It implies that the action is lighthearted, brief, or low stakes. Using this construction makes your speech sound much more natural and less like a teacher giving an order.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this with serious or formal requests, as the softening effect of 吓 can make you sound dismissive or overly playful when you should be direct.
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.
