zeon3進进
Jyutpingzeon3
Yalejeun
Definition
To move forward, advance, or get closer to a target.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
This character is primarily a bound morpheme in Cantonese and rarely stands alone as a verb in everyday speech. It is most commonly encountered in formal or academic compound words like 進步 or 進取. When expressing the action of moving forward or entering a place, native speakers prefer using verbs like 行入去 or 向前走.
Examples
We need to keep improving and not just stop here.
Do you think he is more ambitious than before?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use this as a standalone verb to mean enter, but it sounds unnatural or overly literary. Use 入去 instead when talking about physically entering a space.
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.
