siu6召
Jyutpingsiu6
Yalesiuh
Definition
To summon; to call people or things to oneself.
writtenpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This character is primarily used in formal or literary contexts rather than daily spoken Cantonese. When people want to express the idea of calling someone over in casual settings, they almost always use 叫 instead. It is mostly encountered in compound words related to official summons or organized gatherings.
Examples
The boss is summoning you, go in quickly.
He summoned a whole group of old classmates to meet up.
Related words
Common phrases
to summon for an interview or meeting
to assemble or convene a group
Common mistake
Learners often try to use this in everyday requests like calling a friend or a waiter, but it sounds overly authoritative or archaic in those situations. Stick to 叫 for general purposes to avoid sounding like you are issuing a formal decree.
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.
