hou4號号
Jyutpinghou4
Yalehòuh
Definition
A mark, symbol, or sign used for recording or indication, including punctuation marks.
neutralother
How it's used
Pronunciation is key here as it shifts between tones depending on the context. When referring to a number or a date, it is typically pronounced with a high-rising tone, whereas when used as a noun meaning a mark or symbol, it often takes the lower-rising tone. It is rarely used as a standalone word in spoken Cantonese, appearing almost exclusively as part of compound nouns.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin usage of number markers. In Cantonese, when talking about a specific number in a sequence, we often use 號碼 instead of just 號 to avoid ambiguity.
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.
