jan4 si6人士
Jyutpingjan4 si6
Yaleyàhn sih
Definition
A formal way to refer to a person or individual, especially when their personal details are unspecified.
neutralpeople
How it's used
This term functions as a formal noun suffix or standalone noun to refer to people in a professional or institutional context. It is frequently used in news reports, official notices, or public announcements to maintain a sense of distance and objectivity. Unlike the casual term 嗰個人, it implies a specific role or status rather than just a physical presence.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
Relevant parties have complained that it is very noisy here.
Which person took away my document?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual conversation with friends or family, as it sounds overly bureaucratic and detached. It is not a direct substitute for the common noun 人 when referring to people in everyday life.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
