hin2衍
Jyutpinghin2
Yalehín
Definition
To extend, expand, or spread.
writtenother
How it's used
This character is primarily a morpheme rather than a standalone word in spoken Cantonese. It appears most frequently in formal or academic contexts related to expansion or derivation. In casual speech, it is almost exclusively encountered within the common compound 敷衍, which carries a negative connotation of being insincere or doing something just to get it over with.
Examples
This concept can be expanded further.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse the usage of 衍 with 演. While 衍 relates to spreading or extending, 演 is used for performance, acting, or practicing, such as in 演戲 or 練習.
Grammar color guide
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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.
