zi1 seng2知醒
Jyutpingzi1 seng2
Yalejī séng
Definition
To wake up on time as planned.
colloquialdaily actionstime
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the ability to wake up at a designated or expected time, rather than just the physical act of opening one's eyes. It implies a sense of responsibility or reliability regarding one's schedule. It is frequently used to express relief after successfully waking up for an important event.
Examples
You need to get up early tomorrow morning, will you be able to wake up on time?
Luckily I woke up on time this morning, otherwise I would have been late.
Related words
Common phrases
set an alarm to ensure waking up on time
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with just waking up, which is simply 起身. 知醒 carries the nuance of being aware of the time or having the internal clock to wake up when needed, whereas 起身 is neutral.
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.
