jing1 goi1應該应该
Jyutpingjing1 goi1
Yaleyīng gōi
Definition
Should; ought to; to indicate an action or situation that is reasonable, suitable, or expected.
colloquialdaily actionsother
How it's used
Often functions as a modal verb to express expectation or logical probability rather than just moral duty. When used to describe a high likelihood of something happening, it is interchangeable with 應該會. Unlike formal written Chinese, it is frequently used in casual questions to seek advice or confirm plans.
Examples
You should be going to work tomorrow.
What time should we go eat?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean 'must' or 'have to' as it lacks the imperative force of 必須 or 一定要. It implies a recommendation or a logical deduction rather than a strict requirement.
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.
