m4 zi2唔只
Jyutpingm4 zi2
Yalem̀h jí
Definition
Not only; not merely.
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How it's used
Emphasizes that a situation goes beyond a single point, almost always requiring a follow-up clause introduced by 仲 or 仲有 to list the additional factors. It functions as a conjunction to build an argument or express surprise at the accumulation of negative or positive traits. Using it without a subsequent clause feels incomplete to a native speaker.
Examples
It's not only expensive here, but it also tastes terrible.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use it like the English 'not only' without adding the necessary follow-up particle 仲, which makes the sentence sound like a direct translation rather than natural Cantonese.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
