kan4勤
Jyutpingkan4
Yalekàhn
Definition
Diligent; hardworking; putting effort into one's work without being lazy.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Focus on the active nature of the word, which implies a consistent habit of effort rather than just a temporary burst of energy. It is frequently used in compound words like 勤力 to sound more natural in spoken sentences, as the single character 勤 can sometimes feel a bit formal or literary on its own.
Examples
He studies very hard and gets first place every time.
You are so hardworking, your boss must really like you.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 勤 with 努力. While both mean hardworking, 勤 specifically emphasizes the lack of laziness or the frequency of effort, whereas 努力 is a broader term for putting in effort toward a goal.
Grammar color guide
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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.
