ngoi6 syun1外孫外孙
Jyutpingngoi6 syun1
Yalengoih syūn
Definition
A daughter's child; a maternal grandchild.
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
Distinguishing between maternal and paternal lines is deeply ingrained in Cantonese kinship terminology. While English uses the generic term grandchild, Cantonese speakers specify the relationship through the prefix, where 外 indicates the maternal side. This precision is essential for clarity in family discussions and reflects the traditional importance of lineage.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Related words
Common phrases
well-behaved maternal grandchild
to look after one's daughter's child
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 孫, which specifically refers to a son's child. Using the wrong term can cause confusion regarding which branch of the family tree is being discussed.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
