si6事
Jyutpingsi6
Yalesih
Definition
To engage in or be occupied with; also to serve.
- literaryto engage in; to be occupied with
- literaryto serve; to attend to
writtenworkother
How it's used
This usage of 事 as a verb meaning to engage in or to work at is largely restricted to formal or literary set phrases. In modern spoken Cantonese, you will almost never hear it used as a standalone verb in daily conversation. It is primarily encountered in idioms or compound words related to one's profession or conduct.
Examples
He never does any productive work and only knows how to play.
Related words
Common phrases
to lead an idle life
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for the common noun 事, which means matter or affair. Remember that as a verb, it is highly formal and usually appears in negative constructions like 唔事生產.
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.
