ji5以
Jyutpingji5
Yaleyíh
Definition
To use, take, or regard as; to do something by means of or based on.
- to use, take, or regard as
- by means of; based on; with
writtencommunicationother
How it's used
Functions primarily as a formal preposition in Cantonese, often appearing in set phrases or written contexts rather than casual speech. While it carries the meaning of using or regarding something, speakers frequently substitute it with 用 or 當 in everyday conversation to sound less stiff. It is most commonly encountered in fixed idioms or formal expressions where it maintains a sense of precision.
Examples
I treat people with sincerity and do not want to lie to you.
Why do you take him as your role model?
Related words
Common phrases
an eye for an eye
to set an example by one's own actions
people-oriented
Common mistake
Learners often overuse it in spoken Cantonese where 用 or 當 would be much more natural. Using it in casual settings can make you sound like you are reading from a textbook or a formal document.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
