zan1 hai6真係真系
Jyutpingzan1 hai6
Yalejān haih
Definition
Really, indeed, or truly; indicating that something is a fact rather than fiction, pretend, or fake.
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How it's used
Functions as a versatile intensifier that adds sincerity or emphasis to a statement. It often appears at the start of a sentence to express surprise or to confirm a fact that might otherwise seem unbelievable. Unlike formal equivalents, it carries a conversational weight that signals the speaker is being earnest.
Examples
He really likes eating this thing.
Do you really not remember me?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a direct translation for the English adjective real, as it functions primarily as an adverb in Cantonese. For the adjective meaning, use 真 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
