ning4寧宁
Jyutpingning4
Yalenìhng
Definition
Peaceful, tranquil, and quiet.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in Cantonese rather than a standalone adjective. It appears most frequently in compound words like 寧靜 or 安寧 to describe a state of calm or stillness. Unlike colloquial descriptors such as 靜, it carries a slightly more formal or literary tone when used in speech.
Examples
The environment here is very quiet and comfortable.
Do you want a quiet place to rest?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a standalone adjective to describe a quiet room or person, as native speakers would almost exclusively use 靜 instead. It is not a direct substitute for the simple adjective quiet in everyday conversation.
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.
