zeon2 si4準時准时
Jyutpingzeon2 si4
Yalejéun sìh
Definition
Punctual; on time.
neutraltimework
How it's used
Used to describe someone who arrives exactly when expected, rather than early or late. It often carries a sense of reliability or professional expectation in a Hong Kong context. While it can be used for people, it is also frequently applied to transport services like buses or trains.
Examples
Remember to arrive at work on time tomorrow.
He is always so punctual, it is really rare.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean 'accurate' or 'precise' in a technical sense, as that is better expressed by 準確. It specifically refers to the temporal aspect of being on time.
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.
