hai6 mai6 sin1係咪先系咪先
Jyutpinghai6 mai6 sin1
Yalehaih maih sīn
Definition
Am I right? Is that so?
colloquialcommunicationparticle
How it's used
Adding 先 to the end of a question adds a layer of skepticism or insistence on verification. It functions like a tag question that challenges the listener to confirm the truth of a statement. It is often used when the speaker suspects the listener might be joking, exaggerating, or lying.
Examples
Are you really going to the movies tomorrow?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple question tag like 係唔係. Using 先 implies you have doubts about the information, so it can sound confrontational or overly inquisitive if used with strangers or in formal settings.
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.
