gu3 jin4固然
Jyutpinggu3 jin4
Yalegu yìhn
Definition
No doubt; admittedly; of course.
writtendescriptionscommunication
How it's used
This word functions as a concessive marker, setting up a point of agreement before introducing a counterpoint or reservation. It carries a slightly formal or literary tone, often appearing in argumentative speech or written analysis rather than casual chat. When used in spoken Cantonese, it is frequently paired with 但係 or 不過 to signal the shift to the speaker's actual concern.
Examples
Doing it this way is certainly good, but we have to consider the cost too.
He certainly has talent, but his attitude is a big problem.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this as a direct translation for 'of course' or 'certainly', but it is specifically designed to set up a contrast. Using it without a follow-up clause starting with a contrastive conjunction makes the sentence feel incomplete or awkward.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
