ngai6藝艺
Jyutpingngai6
Yalengaih
Definition
Art, skill, or craftsmanship.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in Cantonese rather than a standalone noun. It appears most frequently in compound words related to skill, performance, or creative expression. When referring to the general concept of art, speakers almost exclusively use the full compound 藝術.
Examples
He has done a lot of research on art.
What do you think of this piece of art?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 藝 alone to mean art in a general sense, as it sounds incomplete or overly literary to native speakers. Always pair it with another character to form a complete noun like 藝術 or 手藝.
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.
