jau1 sin1優先优先
Jyutpingjau1 sin1
Yaleyāu sīn
Definition
Priority; to have precedence or be first in importance or time.
neutralworktransport
How it's used
Often used in formal or administrative contexts to describe policies or rights, such as seating on public transport or project management. While it functions as an adjective, it frequently appears in noun phrases like 優先權 to denote the actual right of priority. It carries a sense of strategic importance rather than just being the first in a physical queue.
Examples
Elderly people have priority when taking public transport.
This matter needs to be handled with priority.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with 頭先, which means 'just now' or 'a moment ago'. Despite both containing the character 先, they are unrelated in meaning and usage.
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.
