mat6勿
Jyutpingmat6
Yalemaht
Definition
Do not; must not; used in signs, notices, and rules to express a command or prohibition.
writtenother
How it's used
This character is strictly reserved for formal written notices, public signage, and official rules. It carries a sense of authority and distance that makes it sound unnatural in casual, face-to-face conversation. Using it in spoken Cantonese to tell a friend not to do something will sound like you are reading a legal document or acting like a stern official.
Examples
Please do not litter here.
Please do not make noise inside.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this in daily speech because they see it on signs. In everyday conversation, always use 唔好 instead of 勿 to express prohibition or advice.
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.
