hon2 jau5罕有
Jyutpinghon2 jau5
Yalehón yáuh
Definition
Rare; extremely hard to obtain or happen.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the scarcity or infrequency of an object or event rather than just its value. It is often used in formal contexts or news reports to describe phenomena that are not easily encountered. While it can describe physical objects, it is frequently applied to abstract situations or occurrences that defy the norm.
Examples
This type of bird is very rare in Hong Kong.
Have you ever seen such a rare gemstone?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean expensive or precious, as it strictly refers to rarity. Use 貴重 for things that are valuable or expensive.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.



