wai4 jat1唯一
Jyutpingwai4 jat1
Yalewàih yāt
Definition
Only; sole; unique; the one and only.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Unlike Mandarin where 唯一 often functions as a standalone adjective, Cantonese speakers frequently pair it with 嘅 to link it to the noun it modifies. It carries a sense of exclusivity or finality that makes it sound more emphatic than simply saying 得一個.
Examples
This is my only choice.
Are you his one and only friend?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 唯一 as a verb or adverb, but it is strictly a modifier. You cannot say 佢唯一去呢度, you must say 佢唯一去嘅地方係呢度.
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.
