wai4 duk6唯獨唯独
Jyutpingwai4 duk6
Yalewàih duhk
Definition
Only; solely; the single exception.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Emphasizes a specific exception to a general rule or situation, often carrying a slightly dramatic or critical tone. It is more formal than 淨係 and is typically used to highlight a contrast that stands out from the rest of the group. You will often find it paired with 係 to form 唯獨係 for extra emphasis.
Examples
Everyone has a share, except for him.
Why is it that only this shop is closed?
Related words
Common phrases
only is
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with 淨係, but 唯獨 specifically highlights an exclusion or a unique case within a larger context, whereas 淨係 is a neutral way to say only.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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Classifier
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Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
