jyun4 sin1原先
Jyutpingjyun4 sin1
Yaleyùhn sīn
Definition
Originally or formerly; at first.
neutraltimedescriptions
How it's used
原先 functions as an adverb to describe a previous state or plan that has since changed. It is interchangeable with 原本 in most contexts, though 原本 can sometimes function as an adjective to describe the original version of something. Using it highlights a contrast between what was expected and the current reality.
Examples
He originally said he would go, but who knew he wouldn't in the end.
This place was originally a park, but now it has become a shopping mall.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 以前, which refers to a general past time. 原先 specifically implies that the situation or plan has been altered or replaced by something else.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
