san1 pong4身旁
Jyutpingsan1 pong4
Yalesān pòhng
Definition
By one's side; beside; close to someone.
neutraldescriptionspeople
How it's used
While 身旁 is understood in speech, it carries a slightly more literary or descriptive tone compared to the common spoken term 隔籬. It is frequently used in storytelling or when describing a scene to emphasize physical proximity or emotional support. In casual daily conversation, people almost always prefer using 隔籬 or 旁邊.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
at one's side
Common mistake
Learners often use 身旁 in contexts where it sounds overly formal or poetic, such as when giving simple directions. For everyday spatial orientation, stick to 隔籬.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
