zan1 lei5真理
Jyutpingzan1 lei5
Yalejān léih
Definition
Truth; a proposition that is factually and logically correct.
neutralother
How it's used
Refers to universal principles or fundamental facts rather than simple honesty or factual accuracy. It carries a philosophical or heavy tone, often appearing in debates, academic discussions, or when someone is being overly dogmatic. Using it in casual conversation about everyday events can sound pretentious or sarcastic.
Examples
He always thinks he has grasped the truth.
Is there really any absolute truth in this world?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use it to mean honesty or telling the truth, which is better expressed as 講真話 or 誠實. Learners often mistakenly use it as a direct translation for any instance of being correct, but it is reserved for deeper, more abstract concepts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
