jan2隠
Jyutpingjan2
Yaleyán
Definition
To hide or conceal; secret.
writtendaily actions
How it's used
While 隠 is used in formal compounds like 隠瞞, it is rarely used as a standalone verb in spoken Cantonese. Instead, native speakers prefer 埋 or 埋藏 when talking about hiding physical objects. The character is most commonly encountered in written text or formal news reports.
Examples
He hid the gift under the bed.
Do you have any secrets you want to hide from me?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 隠 as a direct verb for hiding things in daily speech, but it sounds overly literary or unnatural. Use 埋 instead to convey the action of concealing something.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
