sai3 bun3細半细半
Jyutpingsai3 bun3
Yalesai bun
Definition
The smaller half of something.
colloquialfooddescriptions
How it's used
This term is used to describe a portion that is noticeably smaller than a standard half. It carries a sense of precision regarding the smallness of the share, often implying that the speaker is being careful or frugal with the distribution. It is common to hear it used when discussing food portions or dividing up small items among friends.
Examples
He gave me a tiny half of the apple.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 半, which strictly means exactly fifty percent. Using 細半 implies the portion is specifically smaller than what one might expect from a fair split.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
