hap1 ci5恰似
Jyutpinghap1 ci5
Yalehāp chíh
Definition
To be exactly like, just like, or as if.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
This term is distinctly literary and carries a poetic or formal tone that is rarely used in casual daily speech. It functions as a formal alternative to the common spoken word 似, often appearing in written prose, lyrics, or descriptive speech to create a more elegant or artistic effect. Using it in a very casual setting might make you sound like you are reciting a poem or being overly dramatic.
Examples
The scenery here is as beautiful as a painting.
Related words
Common phrases
just like in the old days
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this in everyday conversation where 似 or 好似 would be much more natural. It is not a direct replacement for 似 in simple comparisons like saying someone is like their parent.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
