sau2 sin1首先

Jyutpingsau2 sin1

Yalesáu sīn

連詞Very common

Definition

First; first of all; in the first place.

neutralcommunicationdaily actions

How it's used

Use this to structure an argument or a list of requirements by highlighting the most critical starting point. It functions as a logical connector that signals to the listener that a sequence of conditions or steps is about to follow. While it is common in formal writing, it is equally natural in spoken Cantonese when explaining processes or setting boundaries.

Examples

sau2首sin1先nei5你jiu3要gaau2搞cing1清co2楚gin2件si6事，sin1先hou2好heoi3去naau6鬧jan4人。

First, you need to get the facts straight before you go scolding people.

Common phrases

sau2首sin1先jiu3要

firstly must

sau2首sin1先hai6係

firstly is

Common mistake

Avoid using this to mean 'the first person' or 'the first one' in a physical sequence, as it strictly refers to the order of logic or priority. For physical order, use 第一 or 頭先 instead.