tung1 kan4通勤
Jyutpingtung1 kan4
Yaletūng kàhn
Definition
To commute to work; especially referring to the journey or the travel time.
neutralworktransport
How it's used
While widely understood, this term is primarily used in formal or professional contexts rather than casual conversation. Most locals prefer using phrases like 返工 or 搭車返工 when talking about their daily travel to the office. It is frequently seen in news reports or corporate surveys discussing traffic patterns and work-life balance.
Examples
He has to spend a whole hour commuting every day.
Do you usually take the MTR or the bus to commute?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this as a direct verb in casual speech, as it sounds overly formal or academic. It is much more natural to say 我返工要搭好耐車 instead of 我通勤要搭好耐車.
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.
