jin4然
Jyutpingjin4
Yaleyìhn
Definition
Yet, but, however, or nevertheless, used to indicate a turn or contrast in a sentence.
writtencommunication
How it's used
This word is primarily found in formal writing or elevated speech rather than casual daily conversation. In spoken Cantonese, people almost always prefer using 係就係 or 但係 to express contrast. Using it in a casual setting can make you sound like you are reading from a textbook or giving a formal presentation.
Examples
He is very smart, yet he is unwilling to work hard.
The situation is critical, yet he remains calm.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it as a direct replacement for 但係 in everyday speech, which sounds unnatural and overly stiff. It is a literary conjunction that does not fit the flow of colloquial Cantonese sentence structures.
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.
