tai4 gung1提供
Jyutpingtai4 gung1
Yaletàih gūng
Definition
To provide, supply, or offer what others need.
neutralworkcommunication
How it's used
Although this word is standard in written Chinese, it is frequently used in formal spoken Cantonese, such as in business or service settings. For casual, everyday situations, speakers almost always prefer the verb 俾, which is much more natural and versatile. Using this word in a very informal context can make you sound like you are reading from a script or a formal announcement.
Examples
The restaurant provides free water for customers to drink.
Can you provide more information?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often overuse this word in casual conversation where 俾 is far more appropriate. It sounds stiff and overly formal when used for simple actions like handing someone an object.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
