tit3鐵铁
Jyutpingtit3
Yaletit
Definition
Iron; the chemical element with atomic number 26 and symbol Fe, a transition metal.
neutralother
How it's used
Beyond the literal chemical element, 鐵 is frequently used in compound words to describe objects that are hard, durable, or metallic in nature. It often appears in metaphors for strength, such as 鐵人 for someone with incredible stamina or 鐵飯碗 for a secure job. Note that in casual speech, it is often used as a shorthand for iron-based tools or materials found in construction or daily hardware.
Measure word
faai3塊faiExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 鐵 with 鋼, which specifically refers to steel. While 鐵 is the general term for iron, 鋼 is the alloy used for most modern construction and kitchenware, so using 鐵 for everything metallic can sound imprecise.
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.
