jau5 si6有事
Jyutpingjau5 si6
Yaleyáuh sih
Definition
To be busy or occupied; to have an emergency or a mishap happen.
- to have something to do; to be busy or occupied
- to have an emergency happen; to be in trouble or in danger
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Beyond meaning to be busy, this phrase often acts as a euphemism for something bad happening, such as an accident or a medical emergency. When someone asks 你有冇事呀, they are usually checking if you are hurt or in trouble rather than asking if you have a schedule conflict. It carries a sense of urgency or concern when used in this negative context.
Examples
I have things to do today, so I can't go shopping with you.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage where it can mean having a problem or being in trouble. In Cantonese, it is frequently used to politely decline an invitation by implying you have prior commitments, even if those commitments are vague.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
