jan4 dei6人哋
Jyutpingjan4 dei6
Yaleyàhn deih
Definition
Other people, or a third-person pronoun meaning him, her, or them.
- other people; others
- he; she; they
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Use this term to refer to others in a way that often implies a sense of comparison or social distance. It is frequently employed to highlight someone else's achievements or behavior to make a point about the listener. When used to refer to oneself, it carries a coy, childish, or overly cutesy tone, which is common among young women or when someone is acting spoiled.
Examples
They haven't finished speaking yet, why are you in such a rush?
She kindly helped you, don't be like that.
Related words
Common phrases
people say
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to a specific group of people you are currently talking about in a formal context, as it sounds informal and slightly accusatory. It is not a direct translation of the pronoun they in all situations, especially when referring to inanimate objects or groups in a neutral, objective manner.
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.
