m4唔
Jyutpingm4
Yalem̀h
Definition
Not; used before an adjective, verb, or preposition for negation.
Example
colloquialdaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Use this as the primary negation marker for verbs and adjectives in spoken Cantonese. Unlike Mandarin, where you might switch between 不 and 沒 depending on the aspect or verb type, this covers almost all standard negation cases. It is also the standard way to negate the copula 係, forming 唔係.
Examples
I don't want to go to work today.
Are you not feeling well?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to negate possession or existence, where you must use 冇 instead. For example, saying 唔有錢 is incorrect; you must say 冇錢.
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.
