jan1 ci2因此
Jyutpingjan1 ci2
Yaleyān chí
Definition
Therefore, consequently, or for this reason; a conjunction linking cause and effect.
writtencommunication
How it's used
Although this word is standard in written Chinese, it sounds quite formal or even stiff when used in spoken Cantonese. Native speakers almost always prefer using 咁或者所以 in casual conversation to connect a cause and its result. Using this word in a relaxed setting can make you sound like you are giving a formal presentation or reading from a script.
Examples
He is sick, therefore he cannot go to the party.
You did not study, so you failed the exam.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often overuse this word in daily speech because it is the first translation they learn for 'therefore'. It is better to reserve it for formal writing or serious discussions to avoid sounding unnatural.
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.
