ting1 nei4 si6聽尼士听尼士
Jyutpingting1 nei4 si6
Yaletīng nèih sih
Definition
Tennis; the transliteration of the English word.
colloquialsports
How it's used
This term is a direct phonetic loan from English and is commonly used in casual conversation among Hong Kongers. While 網球 is the standard written term, 聽尼士 is frequently heard on the court or when making plans with friends. It carries a more informal, relaxed tone compared to the formal name.
Measure word
coeng4場chèunghExamples
Are you free to play tennis tomorrow?
He really likes watching tennis matches.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use the standard written term 網球 in casual speech, which can sound slightly stiff or overly formal in a relaxed social setting. Conversely, avoid using 聽尼士 in formal writing or professional contexts where 網球 is expected.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
