nin4 gei2年紀年纪
Jyutpingnin4 gei2
Yalenìhn géi
Definition
Age; a person's age.
neutralpeopletime
How it's used
Refers specifically to a person's stage of life rather than a precise number of years. While it can be used to ask about age, it often carries a nuance of maturity or being advanced in years. It is more formal than simply asking 幾多歲.
Examples
How old are you now?
He is older now and forgets many things.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to ask for a specific number of years in casual settings, as it can sound slightly more serious or inquisitive than intended. For simple age inquiries, 幾多歲 is the standard and most natural choice.
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.
