jan1 sou3因素
Jyutpingjan1 sou3
Yaleyān sou
Definition
Factor or element; a variable or parameter that influences an event.
neutralother
How it's used
Used primarily in formal, academic, or professional contexts to describe variables that contribute to an outcome. While it is a noun, it often appears in analytical discussions rather than casual daily chatter. It carries a slightly detached and objective tone compared to more descriptive words like 原因.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Weather is an important factor affecting the itinerary.
What other factors do you need to consider?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this when a simpler word like 原因 would be more natural. Avoid using it in everyday conversation to describe simple reasons for personal actions, as it can sound overly clinical or stiff.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).



