jing4 jung4形容
Jyutpingjing4 jung4
Yaleyìhng yùhng
Definition
To describe; to express one's understanding of something to others.
neutralcommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
While 形容 is used in both formal and informal contexts, native speakers often prefer the more colloquial verb 講或者講出嚟 when describing simple everyday things. Using 形容 can sound slightly more analytical or literary, as if you are carefully choosing words to capture the essence of a situation or emotion. It is frequently paired with adverbs like 點樣 or 咁樣 to frame the act of description.
Examples
How would you describe this place?
He described it so clearly that I understood immediately.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use 形容 when they simply mean to tell someone about an event, but it is specifically for depicting the qualities, appearance, or nature of something. If you just want to say 'tell me about your day', use 講而唔係形容.
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.
