taa1 mun4 dik1它們的它们的
Jyutpingtaa1 mun4 dik1
Yaletā mùhn dīk
Definition
Their or theirs, referring to inanimate objects or animals.
writtenpeople
How it's used
Cantonese speakers rarely distinguish between animate and inanimate objects when using pronouns. The character 佢哋 is used for people, animals, and inanimate objects alike, making the specific form 它們 largely a written convention that feels unnatural in spoken conversation. Using 佢哋 for everything is the standard approach for native speakers.
Related words
Common phrases
their
Common mistake
Learners often try to apply Mandarin grammar rules by using 它們 for objects, but this sounds stiff and overly formal in spoken Cantonese. Stick to 佢哋 for all plural third-person references to avoid sounding like you are reading from a textbook.
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.
