si4 jau5 so2 man4時有所聞时有所闻
Definition
To hear of something from time to time; to be heard of occasionally.
How it's used
This is a formal idiom that carries a slightly literary or journalistic tone, often appearing in news reports or serious discussions. It functions as a set phrase to describe phenomena that occur repeatedly but not necessarily frequently enough to be considered constant. Using it in casual, everyday conversation can sound surprisingly sophisticated or even slightly ironic.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common adverbial phrase, but it is a fixed four-character idiom that does not allow for internal modification or the insertion of particles like 嘅 or 咗. It is best used as a predicate or a standalone descriptive phrase rather than a direct replacement for simple phrases like 間唔中.
Grammar color guide
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.
