maa5 lei6瑪莉玛莉
Jyutpingmaa5 lei6
Yalemáh leih
Definition
Mary (given name)
colloquialpeople
How it's used
This is a common transliteration for the English name Mary, often used in older textbooks or by people who prefer a classic Western name. It carries a slightly nostalgic or traditional feel compared to more modern or trendy English names adopted by locals. You will frequently encounter it in older Cantonese learning materials or classic stories.
Examples
Will Mary go to work today?
I just saw Mary buying groceries at the market.
Related words
Common phrases
Miss Mary
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.



