Lai4 ming4黎明
JyutpingLai4 ming4
YaleLàih mìhng
Definition
Dawn; the period of time right at sunrise.
neutraltimenature
How it's used
Refers specifically to the very first light of day, often carrying a slightly poetic or literary nuance in daily speech. While technically a noun, it is rarely used in casual conversation compared to terms like 天光, which describes the process of the sky brightening. It is most commonly encountered in news, literature, or when describing a specific, quiet moment of the morning.
Examples
We waited until dawn before leaving.
The sky is very beautiful at dawn.
Related words
Common phrases
at the break of dawn
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe the general early morning period, as it specifically marks the transition from darkness to light. For general early morning hours, use 凌晨 or 朝早 instead.
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.
