sei2 mat6死物
Jyutpingsei2 mat6
Yaleséi maht
Definition
An inanimate object; a lifeless entity.
colloquialdescriptionsother
How it's used
Often used in contrast to living beings to emphasize that something lacks consciousness or agency. It carries a slightly detached or clinical tone, making it common when discussing logistics, inventory, or even in supernatural contexts where one distinguishes between ghosts and physical items.
Measure word
gin2件gínExamples
These inanimate objects won't move, you don't need to be scared.
Why are you talking to inanimate objects?
Related words
Common phrases
a pile of inanimate objects
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a person who is boring or lacks personality, as that would be considered rude or dehumanizing. Use 悶蛋 instead for a person who is dull.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
