sing4 jan1成因
Jyutpingsing4 jan1
Yalesìhng yān
Definition
Cause; a contributing factor that leads to an event.
neutralother
How it's used
Focuses on the underlying logic or source behind a specific outcome, often used in formal reports, news, or medical explanations. While it functions as a noun, it carries a slightly analytical tone compared to the more general word 原因. It is common to see it paired with specific events or phenomena to pinpoint the exact origin of a situation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Do you know what the cause of this matter is?
The doctor explained many causes of the illness to me.
Related words
Common phrases
cause of an accident
cause of an illness onset
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 原因. While 原因 is a general term for any reason, 成因 specifically implies a process of formation or a causal factor that led to a result, making it less suitable for simple excuses or personal motives.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
