si1 nim6思念
Jyutpingsi1 nim6
Yalesī nihm
Definition
To miss or long for someone or something, usually due to separation.
writtenemotion
How it's used
Expresses a deeper, more literary sense of longing compared to the everyday term 掛住. It is frequently used in written contexts, song lyrics, or formal speech to convey a profound emotional attachment to someone or something distant. Using it in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or poetic.
Examples
I really miss my younger brother who is studying abroad.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it for simple, short-term absences like missing a friend you saw yesterday, as 掛住 is the standard choice for daily social interactions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
