paak3 ziu3拍照
Jyutpingpaak3 ziu3
Yalepaak jiu
Definition
To take a picture or photograph.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
While 拍照 is understood in Hong Kong, it sounds formal or like written Chinese. Locals almost exclusively use 影相 in daily speech. Using 影相 makes your Cantonese sound much more natural and less like you are reading from a textbook.
Related words
Common phrases
to take a photo as a souvenir
Common mistake
Learners often use 拍照 because they see it in dictionaries, but it can sound stiff or overly serious in casual settings. Stick to 影相 for everyday interactions to avoid sounding like a news reporter.
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.
