mai5 zi6咪自
Jyutpingmai5 zi6
Yalemáih jih
Definition
Hold on a second; stop for a moment.
colloquialdaily actionscommunication
How it's used
Functioning as a common imperative to pause or halt an action, this phrase is essentially a contraction of 唔好住. It is highly versatile and can be used to stop someone from speaking, moving, or making a decision. When used in a slightly impatient tone, it effectively signals that the speaker needs a moment to process information or catch up.
Related words
Common phrases
Wait a moment first
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the negative marker 咪, which is a contraction of 唔好. Ensure the context clearly indicates a request to pause rather than a prohibition against doing something.
Grammar color guide
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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.
