ngaai4崖
Jyutpingngaai4
Yalengàaih
Definition
Cliff; a steep edge of a mountain or high ground.
neutralnature
How it's used
Refers specifically to a steep, vertical rock face. While it can stand alone, it is most frequently encountered in the compound 懸崖. It carries a strong sense of peril and height, often used metaphorically to describe a situation on the brink of disaster.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
That place is a cliff, it is very dangerous.
Why do you have to walk to the edge of the cliff, it's so dangerous?
Related words
Common mistake
Beginners sometimes confuse it with 岸, which refers to a shore or bank. Remember that 崖 implies a significant, steep drop, whereas 岸 is typically flat or gently sloping ground next to water.
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.
