m4 zi2唔止
Jyutpingm4 zi2
Yalem̀h jí
Definition
Not only; more than just.
colloquialdescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Use this to connect two attributes or actions that exceed a basic expectation. It frequently pairs with 仲 or 仲有 to introduce the second, more surprising point. It functions as a conjunction to emphasize that the scope of a situation is broader than what was initially stated.
Examples
He not only knows how to speak Cantonese, but also Japanese.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 唔只, which is a common typo; 唔止 is the standard way to write this expression. Avoid using it to mean 'stop' as in 'cease', which would be 停止.
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.
