kau3 maai5購買购买
Jyutpingkau3 maai5
Yalekau máaih
Definition
To purchase or buy; to acquire ownership of goods or services with money.
writtenshoppingmoney
How it's used
This term is significantly more formal than the everyday verb 買. It is typically reserved for written documents, official announcements, or business contexts where a professional tone is required. Using it in casual conversation often sounds stiff or overly detached, as if you are reading from a contract.
Examples
Which model of phone are you planning to purchase?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this in casual speech where 買 is more natural. It is not a direct substitute for the common act of buying groceries or daily items.
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.
