sai3 seng1細聲细声
Jyutpingsai3 seng1
Yalesai sēng
Definition
Quiet; soft; low in volume.
colloquialdescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Focus on the volume of sound rather than the pitch or tone. It is frequently used as an adverbial modifier by adding 啲 to indicate a request for lower volume. When someone is being secretive or discreet, it is common to use this to describe their manner of speaking.
Examples
Speak a bit softer, don't disturb others.
Does he usually speak very softly?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 細心, which means careful or attentive. Remember that 細聲 specifically refers to the decibel level of a sound, not the quality of a person's character.
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.
