si5 gaau1市郊
Jyutpingsi5 gaau1
Yalesíh gāu
Definition
Outer city
neutralplaces
How it's used
Refers specifically to residential or semi-developed areas on the outskirts of a city. While it functions as a noun, it is frequently used in locative phrases with 喺 to describe where someone lives or where a specific facility is located. It carries a neutral tone and is commonly used in both formal news reports and casual conversation.
Examples
keoi5 zyu6 hai2 si5 gaau1 faan1 gung1 jiu3 daap6 hou2 noi6 ce1
佢住喺市郊，返工要搭好耐車。
He lives in the suburbs, so it takes a long time to commute to work.
si5 gaau1 hung1 hei3 hou2 di1 waan4 ging2 jau6 zing6 di1
市郊空氣好啲，環境又靜啲。
The air is better in the suburbs, and the environment is quieter too.
Related words
Common phrases
si5 gaau1 dei6 keoi1
市郊地區
suburban area
Common mistake
Avoid using it to describe rural areas or deep countryside, as it implies a connection to the city infrastructure. For areas that are truly remote or wild, use 郊區 or 鄉下 instead.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
