zan6 gaan3陣間阵间
Jyutpingzan6 gaan3
Yalejahn gaan
Definition
In a short while; later.
colloquialtime
How it's used
Refers to a near future that is usually within the same day. It implies a sense of immediacy without being as urgent as now. It is frequently used to signal a transition in plans or to announce an upcoming action.
Examples
I will go downstairs to buy a cup of coffee in a little while.
Are you free to go shopping with me later?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to a distant future like next week or next year. It is strictly for short term intervals within the current timeframe.
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.
