saam1 gei2三幾三几
Jyutpingsaam1 gei2
Yalesāam géi
Definition
Several; a few; typically between three and five.
colloquialnumbersdaily actions
How it's used
Used to express a vague, small quantity usually ranging from three to five. It carries a sense of casual estimation, often implying that the amount is relatively insignificant or easily manageable. It is frequently used when talking about time, money, or small physical objects.
Examples
He bought a few pieces of clothing home.
Wait for me a few minutes, it will be very quick.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 幾多, which is used for asking 'how many'. Also, avoid using it for large numbers, as it specifically denotes a small, countable amount.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
