lei5 zi3理智
Jyutpinglei5 zi3
Yaleléih ji
Definition
Reason, intellect, or the ability to distinguish right from wrong.
neutraldescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Often used to describe someone who remains calm and logical during stressful situations. It functions as both a noun and an adjective, though it is frequently used as an adjective in spoken Cantonese to describe a person's temperament. It carries a positive connotation of being level-headed and objective.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean intelligence or cleverness, as it specifically refers to the ability to reason and stay objective rather than raw mental capacity.
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.
