ngaai6乂
Jyutpingngaai6
Yalengaaih
Definition
To regulate, control, govern, or nurture.
writtenother
How it's used
This character is rarely used in modern spoken Cantonese and is largely restricted to formal or literary contexts. It often appears in compound words related to governance or discipline. Most speakers would prefer using common verbs like 管理 or 處理 in everyday conversation.
Examples
This society needs to be well-regulated.
How do you manage these kids?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this character with 叉 due to their visual similarity. Using 乂 in casual speech will sound highly unnatural or archaic to native speakers.
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.
