siu2 haai4小孩
Jyutpingsiu2 haai4
Yalesíu hàaih
Definition
A child or kid.
colloquialpeoplefamily
How it's used
While 小孩 is understood in Cantonese, it sounds quite formal or written. Most people use 細路 or 小朋友 in daily speech to refer to children. Using 小孩 in casual conversation can make you sound like you are reading from a textbook or a news report.
Measure word
go3個goRelated words
Common mistake
Avoid using 小孩 when speaking to friends or family, as it lacks the natural, warm tone of 細路. If you are referring to someone else's child, 小朋友 is the most polite and common choice.
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.
