ze3 ci4借詞借词
Jyutpingze3 ci4
Yaleje chìh
Definition
Loanword; a word adopted from another language.
neutralcommunication
How it's used
Academic discussions often use this term to describe words adapted from foreign languages, particularly English, into Cantonese. While common in linguistics, everyday speakers might simply refer to these as 英文詞 or 外來語 depending on the context. It specifically highlights the process of borrowing rather than just the origin of the word.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
There are many foreign loanwords in Cantonese.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with 譯名, which refers specifically to transliterated names of people or places, whereas 借詞 covers a broader range of vocabulary including nouns and verbs.
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.
