si4時时
Jyutpingsi4
Yalesìh
Definition
O'clock, used to specify the hour when telling time.
neutraltime
How it's used
While 時 is used in formal contexts or when reading clocks in a professional setting, it is rarely used in daily casual speech. Most Cantonese speakers prefer using 點 or 點鐘 to express time. Using 時 in everyday conversation can sound overly formal or even slightly literary.
Examples
It is exactly three o'clock now, we need to leave.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 時 as a general word for time, but it is specifically for clock time. For duration or general time, use 時間 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
