mak6 kei4万俟
Jyutpingmak6 kei4
Yalemahk kèih
Definition
A two-character Chinese compound surname.
neutralpeople
How it's used
This surname is a rare compound surname of Xianbei origin. In Cantonese, it is pronounced as Man-kei, which differs significantly from the Mandarin pronunciation. It is almost exclusively encountered in historical contexts or as a literary reference rather than in everyday life.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to pronounce it based on Mandarin pinyin, which leads to confusion. Always remember the specific Cantonese reading Man-kei to avoid being misunderstood by 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.
