nang4 noi6能耐
Jyutpingnang4 noi6
Yalenàhng noih
Definition
Ability, capability, or skill.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Often carries a slightly sarcastic or challenging tone when used in questions. It implies a sense of skepticism about someone's actual power or competence, rather than just describing a neutral skill set. When used in a positive context, it emphasizes a person's resourcefulness or knack for handling difficult situations.
Examples
What kind of ability does he have to be a manager?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this as a direct translation for general ability or skill in a formal context, as it sounds overly dramatic or confrontational. It is not a synonym for general talent or intelligence, but specifically refers to one's capacity to achieve something difficult or exert influence.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
