zi1肢
Jyutpingzi1
Yalejī
Definition
Limb; a person's arms and legs.
neutralbodyhealth
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively used as a bound morpheme in compound words rather than as a standalone noun in daily speech. Native speakers naturally refer to limbs using the specific terms 手 and 腳 instead. It appears most frequently in formal or medical contexts, such as describing physical injuries or fitness routines.
Examples
Remember to stretch your limbs before you exercise.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this word in casual conversation to refer to a specific arm or leg, as it sounds overly clinical or literary. Always prefer the everyday terms 手 or 腳 to avoid sounding like you are reading from a textbook.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
