waa6 ding6話定话定
Jyutpingwaa6 ding6
Yalewah dihng
Definition
To tell, agree, or discuss in advance.
colloquialcommunicationdaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the act of setting an agreement or providing a heads up before an event occurs. It implies that the decision or information is now fixed and should not be changed easily. It is frequently used when giving a warning or setting expectations for others.
Examples
I am telling you in advance that we need to wake up early tomorrow.
Have you guys agreed on what time to go for dim sum?
Related words
Common phrases
let you know in advance
set the time in advance
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 講定, which is more general. 話定 specifically emphasizes the communication aspect of setting a plan or expectation with someone.
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.
