soeng1商
Jyutpingsoeng1
Yalesēung
Definition
Business, trade, or commerce.
neutralworkmoney
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in formal or academic compounds rather than as a standalone noun in daily speech. When referring to business in casual conversation, speakers almost always prefer 生意 or 買賣 instead. It carries a more professional or institutional weight compared to those everyday terms.
Examples
He is doing trade business.
Are you interested in commercial activities?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a standalone noun to mean a shop or a deal, as it will sound unnatural or archaic. Always use it as part of a compound word like 商業 or 商人.
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.
