maat3 gon1 zeng6抹乾淨抹干净
Jyutpingmaat3 gon1 zeng6
Yalemaat gōn jehng
Definition
To wipe something clean.
colloquialdaily actionshome
How it's used
This phrase is a resultative verb construction where the second part describes the outcome of the action. It is extremely common in household contexts and daily chores. Unlike simply using 抹, adding 乾淨 emphasizes that the surface must be free of dirt or liquid after the action is completed.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
wipe the table clean
wipe hands clean
Common mistake
Learners often try to translate the English structure directly by adding 咗 or 完, but 抹乾淨 already implies the completion of the state. Avoid saying 抹完乾淨, as it sounds redundant and unnatural to native speakers.
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.
