zi2旨
Jyutpingzi2
Yalejí
Definition
Aim, purpose, or objective; or an imperial decree.
- aim, purpose, or objective
- literarya decree or order, especially from an emperor
writtenother
How it's used
Using 旨 as a standalone noun for purpose or aim is quite formal or literary in modern Cantonese. Most speakers prefer using 目的 or 目標 in everyday conversation. You will mostly encounter this character in compound words like 宗旨 or 聖旨.
Examples
He has absolutely no aim in his work, like a headless fly.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 指, which is a common verb meaning to point or indicate. Learners often mix these up in writing because they sound identical in many contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
