m4 zeon2唔准
Jyutpingm4 zeon2
Yalem̀h jéun
Definition
Not allowed; forbidden; prohibited.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of prohibition or official restriction. It is frequently used in public signage or by authority figures to set firm boundaries. Unlike the softer 唔好, which acts more like a suggestion or a request to stop, 唔准 implies that there are consequences for breaking the rule.
Examples
Eating is not allowed here.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 唔准 with 唔好. While 唔好 can mean 'don't' in a persuasive or friendly sense, 唔准 is strictly about permission and authority.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
