ji6異异
Jyutpingji6
Yaleyih
Definition
Different; not the same.
writtendescriptions
How it's used
While 異 functions as a morpheme meaning different, it is rarely used as a standalone adjective in modern spoken Cantonese. You will almost always encounter it as part of compound words or formal expressions. When describing things that are not the same, native speakers prefer using 唔同 or 分別.
Examples
The two of them have very different ideas.
Related words
Common phrases
speak with one voice
mostly the same with minor differences
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 異 as a direct replacement for 唔同 in casual conversation, which sounds unnatural or overly literary. Stick to 唔同 for everyday speech and reserve 異 for specific idioms or formal contexts.
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.
