jan4 zai3人際人际
Jyutpingjan4 zai3
Yaleyàhn jai
Definition
Interpersonal; between people.
neutralpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Functions primarily as a modifier for nouns rather than standing alone as a noun itself. It is almost exclusively paired with words like 關係 or 溝通 to describe the dynamics between people. Unlike everyday spoken Cantonese which prefers simpler phrasing, this term retains a slightly more formal or professional tone.
Examples
He is very good at handling interpersonal relationships.
Do you find interpersonal communication difficult?
Related words
Common phrases
interpersonal relationship
interpersonal communication
Common mistake
Avoid using it to describe a specific person or a single interaction, as it specifically refers to the abstract concept of relationships between multiple people. It is not a substitute for words like 朋友 or 同事.
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.
