jin1 zai2煙子烟子
Jyutpingjin1 zai2
Yaleyīn jái
Definition
Inch.
colloquialother
How it's used
Derived directly from the English word inch, this term is primarily used in technical or construction contexts where imperial measurements are standard. While younger generations often use the English word directly in conversation, older tradespeople frequently use this transliteration. It is rarely used for measuring height or body dimensions, where people might default to centimeters or just use the English word.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 煙, which means smoke or cigarette. Because the pronunciation is very similar to the Cantonese word for cigarette, context is essential to avoid confusion in casual speech.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
