se1些
Jyutpingse1
Yalesē
Definition
A small, unspecified quantity; some, a few, or a little of something.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
While 些 is the formal written character, it is almost never used in spoken Cantonese. Instead, the character 啲 is used universally to represent the meaning of 'some' or 'a little'. Using 些 in casual conversation will sound extremely unnatural or like a direct translation from written Chinese.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 些 in speech because they see it in textbooks or formal documents. Always use 啲 for spoken Cantonese to sound natural.
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.
