jik6譯译
Jyutpingjik6
Yaleyihk
Definition
To translate; to interpret meaning from one language into another.
neutralcommunication
How it's used
While 譯 is the standard term for written translation, it is often paired with 口譯 for oral interpretation. In casual conversation, people frequently use 翻譯 as a compound verb rather than just 譯 on its own to avoid sounding overly formal or abrupt. It is essential to specify the target language using the structure 譯做, which clearly marks the transition between the source and target languages.
Examples
Could you help me translate this English sentence into Cantonese?
He translated the document, but some parts aren't translated very accurately.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 譯 with 解, which means to explain or interpret the meaning of something. Using 譯 when you actually mean to explain a concept or a word's definition will sound unnatural to native speakers.
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.
