loeng6 ci4量詞量词
Jyutpingloeng6 ci4
Yaleleuhng chìh
Definition
Classifier or measure word in linguistics used to quantify objects or actions and accompanied by numerals.
neutralother
How it's used
Cantonese relies on measure words far more strictly than English or Mandarin. Using the generic classifier 個 for everything is understandable but marks a speaker as a non-native or a learner. Mastering specific classifiers for different shapes and categories of objects is essential for sounding natural.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Do you know how this measure word should be used?
There are many different measure words in Cantonese.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 個 for everything, but many nouns have unique, mandatory classifiers, such as 隻 for small animals or hands, and 條 for long, thin objects. Using the wrong one can sound unnatural or even change the meaning of the noun.
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.
