ze3 jat1 ze3借一借
Jyutpingze3 jat1 ze3
Yaleje yāt je
Definition
To excuse oneself, squeeze past, or ask someone to step aside and make way.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Used primarily in crowded public spaces like MTR stations or narrow aisles to politely request someone to step aside. It functions as a softer, more socially acceptable way to ask for space compared to simply pushing through. The repetition of the verb adds a sense of lightness and temporary duration, implying you only need the space for a brief moment.
Examples
Excuse me, please let me pass.
Could you please move aside a little?
Related words
Common phrases
Excuse me please
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of borrowing something, as the context of physical movement makes the intended meaning clear to native speakers. It is strictly for requesting physical space and should not be used when asking to borrow an object.
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.
