sai3 sai3細細细细
Jyutpingsai3 sai3
Yalesai sai
Definition
Small, tiny, or very young.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Reduplication of adjectives is a common way to soften the tone or emphasize the diminutive nature of an object in Cantonese. Adding the suffix 粒 creates a more vivid image of something being small and round, like a bead or a pill. It is frequently used when talking about childhood memories or describing cute, compact items.
Examples
When he was little, he loved playing with mud and sand.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 細細個, which specifically refers to being young in age. Using it to describe a person's physical size without the context of age can sound slightly condescending or overly informal.
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.
