jung6 sam1用心
Jyutpingjung6 sam1
Yaleyuhng sām
Definition
Intention, motive, or purpose.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While often used to mean intention, this word frequently carries a nuance of effort or sincerity behind an action. It is commonly paired with adjectives like 良苦 to describe someone who goes to great lengths for another person's benefit. Unlike the more neutral 用意, this term emphasizes the depth of thought or care invested in a plan.
Examples
What exactly is your intention for doing this?
His arrangement really shows deep and good intentions.
Related words
Common phrases
well-intentioned and painstaking
to have ulterior motives
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the verb phrase 用心, which means to do something attentively or with focus. Context is crucial to distinguish whether it is being used as a noun for motive or as an adverbial description of how someone is performing a task.
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.
