hei2 cing4起程
Jyutpinghei2 cing4
Yalehéi chìhng
Definition
To set out on a journey; to start a trip.
neutraltravel
How it's used
This term carries a slightly formal tone compared to everyday verbs like 出發. It is most commonly used in contexts involving long-distance travel or planned journeys rather than just leaving the house for a quick errand. You will often hear it in travel announcements or when discussing the logistics of a trip.
Examples
We have to set out early tomorrow morning.
When are you all setting out for your trip?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 出發, but while they are synonyms, 出發 is much more versatile and can be used for any departure, whereas 起程 specifically emphasizes the beginning of a journey or a trip.
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.
