gwaa2 jan4寡人
Jyutpinggwaa2 jan4
Yalegwá yàhn
Definition
First-person pronoun used by sovereigns and rulers in ancient China.
writtenpeople
How it's used
This pronoun is exclusively reserved for historical or theatrical contexts, projecting an image of supreme authority and isolation. It carries a heavy sense of archaism and is never used in modern daily life except when roleplaying or referencing period dramas. Using it in casual conversation will sound intentionally dramatic or mocking.
Examples
I (the king) wish to inspect the people's living conditions today.
Who dares to oppose my (the king's) decision?
Related words
Common phrases
I (the king) have a sickness
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a standard first-person pronoun, but using it in any modern context will sound extremely bizarre and out of place.
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.
