ham4 ji6含義含义
Jyutpingham4 ji6
Yalehàhm yih
Definition
Meaning; implication; a deeper level of meaning beyond the surface level.
neutralcommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the deeper or hidden significance behind words or actions rather than just the literal definition. It is more formal than the common word 意思 and is typically used in analytical or serious contexts. When discussing simple definitions, native speakers almost always prefer 意思 instead.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, everyday situations where 意思 is perfectly sufficient. Using it to ask for the definition of a basic vocabulary word sounds overly academic or stiff.
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.
