san1新
Jyutpingsan1
Yalesān
Definition
Newly, freshly, or recently.
Example
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
Functions primarily as an adjective but frequently acts as an adverb in colloquial speech to describe the recency of an action. When used this way, it often implies that the state of being new is the result of a recent event, such as purchasing or moving. It carries a sense of freshness and is often paired with particles like 㗎 to emphasize the recent nature of the acquisition.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean recently in the sense of a time duration like 'a few days ago' or 'last week'. It specifically highlights the condition of being new or just acquired, rather than just marking a point in time.
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.
