ji3 liu6意料
Jyutpingji3 liu6
Yaleyi liuh
Definition
To expect, predict, or anticipate a situation or outcome in advance.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Often functions as a noun phrase in fixed expressions like 出乎意料 or 意料之中. It carries a slightly more formal or literary tone compared to everyday verbs like 估 or 預計. When used to describe something surprising, it is almost always paired with 出乎 to emphasize that the event fell outside the scope of one's initial assumptions.
Examples
This result was completely beyond my expectations.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use it as a direct verb for guessing, but it is rarely used as a standalone verb in casual speech. It is much more natural to use 估 or 預計 when talking about simple predictions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
