jyun4援
Jyutpingjyun4
Yaleyùhn
Definition
To aid, assist, or help.
writtendaily actions
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively found in formal compounds and written expressions rather than being used as a standalone verb in spoken Cantonese. When people want to express the concept of helping, they use 幫 or 幫手 instead. Using 援 in casual speech sounds overly literary or like a news report.
Examples
He is very willing to lend a helping hand to help you.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use 援 as a direct substitute for 幫 in daily conversation, as it will sound unnatural and pretentious. It is strictly a morpheme used in specific set phrases.
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.
