jyu6 sin1預先预先
Jyutpingjyu6 sin1
Yaleyuh sīn
Definition
In advance; beforehand.
colloquialdaily actionstime
How it's used
Focuses on the preparation or planning stage before an event occurs. It is often paired with verbs like 講, 買, or 準備 to emphasize that the action was completed before the deadline or the actual event. Unlike formal written Chinese, speakers frequently add particles like 㗎 or 喇 to soften the tone when giving instructions or making suggestions.
Examples
Remember to tell him in advance.
Do we need to buy tickets in advance to get in?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it as a direct translation for prepare, but it specifically functions as an adverb meaning beforehand. Use 準備 when you mean to prepare something, and use 預先 when you want to emphasize the timing of the action.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
