hak1 ji3刻意
Jyutpinghak1 ji3
Yalehāk yi
Definition
Deliberately, intentionally, or on purpose; doing something with a specific intent.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the effort or conscious choice behind an action, often implying that the person went out of their way to make something happen. It frequently carries a slightly negative or critical nuance when describing someone's behavior, suggesting they are being performative or manipulative. While it functions as an adverb, it is common to see it used to describe a state of being overly calculated or unnatural.
Examples
He deliberately didn't speak to me, as if he were very angry.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it for simple intentional actions where no extra effort or calculation is involved, such as saying you intentionally went to the store. In those cases, use 有心 or 特登 instead.
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.
