jan4 sai3人世
Jyutpingjan4 sai3
Yaleyàhn sai
Definition
The human world; the world we live in.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
Focuses heavily on the transient or mortal nature of life, often appearing in contexts involving death or philosophical reflection. It carries a more literary or solemn weight compared to everyday words for the world like 世界. You will frequently encounter it in formal writing or when someone is speaking about the human experience in a reflective tone.
Examples
He has already passed away.
There is a lot of different suffering in this world.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual conversation to refer to the physical planet or global events, as it sounds overly dramatic or poetic. Use 世界 instead for general references to the world.
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.
