wan4云
Jyutpingwan4
Yalewàhn
Definition
To say or speak.
writtencommunication
How it's used
This character is strictly a literary morpheme used in formal or classical contexts. It never functions as a standalone verb in modern spoken Cantonese, where 講 is used instead. You will almost exclusively encounter it in the set phrase 古語有云 when someone is about to quote a proverb or a piece of traditional wisdom.
Examples
As the old saying goes, diligence leads to success, while play brings no benefit.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not attempt to use this as a replacement for 講 in everyday speech, as it will sound extremely unnatural and archaic. It is not a verb that can take objects or aspect markers like 咗 or 緊.
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.
