si4 gaan3時間时间
Jyutpingsi4 gaan3
Yalesìh gaan
Definition
Time; the continuous progress of past, present, and future.
neutraltime
How it's used
While 時間 refers to the abstract concept of time, Cantonese speakers often use 鐘頭 or 陣 when talking about specific durations. Using 時間 in a sentence like 我有時間 is perfectly fine, but if you want to express having a free moment, you might also hear people say 我有空 or 我得閒.
Examples
How much time do you still have to prepare?
Time flies, a year has passed in the blink of an eye.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 時間 with 鐘頭. Remember that 時間 is the abstract concept of time, whereas 鐘頭 is specifically used for measuring hours or duration.
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.
