syu1 min6書面书面
Jyutpingsyu1 min6
Yalesyū mihn
Definition
Written; in writing; recorded in characters.
neutralcommunicationwork
How it's used
Distinguish this from oral communication by focusing on formal documentation or evidence. It is frequently used in professional or bureaucratic settings to emphasize that a verbal agreement is insufficient. While it implies formality, it does not necessarily mean the language used must be formal written Chinese.
Examples
This matter must have a written record to be acceptable.
Are you asking me to provide written proof?
Related words
Common phrases
written notice
written report
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe the act of writing itself, which is 寫字. It specifically functions as a modifier to indicate the medium of communication is text rather than speech.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
