ze3 jung6借用
Jyutpingze3 jung6
Yaleje yuhng
Definition
To borrow something for use, including objects or ideas.
- to borrow an object for temporary use
- to borrow or adapt an idea, term, or method
neutraldaily actionswork
How it's used
Borrowing in Cantonese is usually expressed with 借, but 借用 specifically emphasizes the temporary utility of the object rather than just the act of taking possession. It is frequently used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as borrowing equipment at an office or adopting someone else's ideas for a project. When asking a friend for a casual favor, people often just use 借 instead.
Examples
Could I borrow your phone to make a call?
He borrowed my design concept to submit his assignment.
Related words
Common phrases
to borrow a venue for use
to borrow equipment for use
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 借用 with 借, but 借用 implies you are using the item for a specific purpose and will return it promptly. Using 借用 for long-term borrowing or when asking to keep something permanently sounds unnatural.
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.
