tai2 tai2睇睇
Jyutpingtai2 tai2
Yaletái tái
Definition
To take a look, see, or check.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Reduplication of verbs is a hallmark of Cantonese that softens the tone, making a request or suggestion sound casual and non-demanding. Using 睇睇 instead of just 睇 implies a brief, informal inspection rather than a serious or prolonged examination. It is frequently used when browsing in shops or when asking someone to check a minor issue.
Examples
I want to take a look and see if there are any clothes I like.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly add the particle 咗 or 緊 to the reduplicated form, but 睇睇 already carries a sense of a quick, completed action or a light suggestion, making those markers redundant or grammatically awkward.
Grammar color guide
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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.
