zi3 wai6智慧
Jyutpingzi3 wai6
Yaleji waih
Definition
Wisdom; intelligence; the ability to analyze, judge, create, and think.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to the ability to make sound judgments and solve complex problems, rather than just raw academic knowledge or IQ. It is often used in formal or semi-formal contexts to describe someone's maturity or strategic thinking. While it can be used in daily conversation, it carries a slightly elevated tone compared to just saying someone is smart.
Examples
He is very wise in his work and won't act recklessly.
Do you think this decision is full of wisdom?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 聰明, which is more commonly used to describe general cleverness or being quick-witted. 智慧 implies a deeper level of insight and experience that 聰明 does not necessarily possess.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
