hon3 ci5看似
Jyutpinghon3 ci5
Yalehon chíh
Definition
To look like, or to appear to be on the surface, usually implying the reality is different.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Use this to express a contrast between initial impressions and reality. It functions as a verb phrase that sets up a 'but' clause, signaling that the subject's true nature or the actual situation differs from the visual evidence. It is more natural in spoken Cantonese than the formal written equivalent.
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple physical resemblance, as it specifically implies a potential discrepancy between appearance and reality. For neutral physical similarity, use 似 or 好似 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
