hoi2 dou2海島海岛
Jyutpinghoi2 dou2
Yalehói dóu
Definition
An island; a piece of land completely surrounded by the sea.
neutralnaturetravel
How it's used
Refers specifically to a landmass surrounded by water, but in daily life, people almost always use 島 instead of the full term 海島. Using the two-character version sounds slightly more formal or descriptive, often appearing in travel brochures or geographical contexts. If you are just chatting with friends about a trip, stick to 島 to sound more natural.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
We are going to an island for a vacation next week.
Are there any hotels on this island?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use 海島 when referring to the New Territories or specific districts in Hong Kong, but those are not islands. Remember that it must be physically surrounded by water to qualify.
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.
