sin1 paai2先排
Jyutpingsin1 paai2
Yalesīn páai
Definition
A while ago; some time ago; recently.
colloquialtime
How it's used
Refers to a vague, recent period of time that is not specifically defined. It functions similarly to the English phrase 'the other day' or 'lately', but it specifically points to a duration that has already passed rather than the current moment. It is extremely common in casual conversation to introduce a topic that happened recently.
Examples
I was a bit busy a while ago, so I didn't reach out to you.
Did you go on a trip a while ago?
Related words
Common phrases
just a while ago
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 先, which means 'first' or 'before'. While 先排 contains the character 先, it acts as a fixed time expression and cannot be separated or used to mean 'firstly'.
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.
