ze3借
Jyutpingze3
Yaleje
Definition
To borrow, lend, or use temporarily with the intention of returning.
- to borrow
- to lend; to loan
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Distinguishing between borrowing and lending relies entirely on context and the direction of the action. While 借 covers both meanings, speakers often clarify the direction by using 畀 to indicate lending or 喺...度 to indicate borrowing from someone. It is common to add 陣 or 陣間 to soften the request, implying that the item will be returned shortly.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 借 with 租. Use 借 when no money is exchanged for the temporary use of an item, whereas 租 is specifically for renting something where a fee is involved.
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.
