syun4旋
Jyutpingsyun4
Yalesyùhn
Definition
To turn, spin, or rotate.
neutraldaily actions
How it's used
While 旋 is a common morpheme in written or formal compounds, it is rarely used as a standalone verb in daily speech. Native speakers almost always prefer 轉 when describing the physical act of turning or rotating something. You will mostly encounter 旋 in specific set phrases or technical contexts involving circular motion.
Examples
The plane is circling in the sky.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use 旋 as a direct substitute for 轉 in casual conversation. Using it to mean 'turn around' or 'change direction' will sound unnatural or overly literary to a local listener.
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.
