keoi5 lei4距離距离
Jyutpingkeoi5 lei4
Yalekéuih lèih
Definition
Distance or the span of length between two points.
neutraldescriptionsother
How it's used
Used both for physical space and metaphorical gaps between people or ideas. When discussing physical travel, it is common to pair it with words like 遠 or 近 to describe the scale of the gap. It is a standard term that fits into both formal and casual speech without sounding overly stiff.
Examples
The distance from here to the MTR station is very far.
Is the distance between you and him very far?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a verb to mean 'to distance oneself'. In Cantonese, you would use phrases like 同人保持距離 to express the act of keeping a distance from someone.
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.
