jan1 zi2因子
Jyutpingjan1 zi2
Yaleyān jí
Definition
Factor; a term or number that divides another evenly, or a contributing element.
- technicalfactor; divisor (commonly used in Mainland China, equivalent to 因數)
- factor; a contributing element or cause of a result
writtenschoolnumbers
How it's used
Primarily used in mathematical contexts, this term is a direct loan from Mandarin terminology. In everyday Hong Kong Cantonese, speakers almost exclusively use 因數 when discussing arithmetic or algebra. Using 因子 in a casual conversation about math might sound slightly unnatural or overly academic to local ears.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the English loanword factor used in business or social contexts, which is usually translated as 因素. Using 因子 to describe a reason or cause for an event is incorrect.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- 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.
