zi6 min6字面
Jyutpingzi6 min6
Yalejih mihn
Definition
The literal meaning of a word or phrase, as opposed to its implied or contextual meaning.
colloquialcommunication
How it's used
Focus on the gap between what is explicitly stated and what is actually intended. It is frequently used in the phrase 照字面睇 to signal that someone is about to provide a surface level interpretation before diving into deeper context or sarcasm. It serves as a useful disclaimer when you want to clarify that you are not missing the subtext, but simply acknowledging the raw definition first.
Examples
Don't just look at the literal meaning when he speaks.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 表面, which refers to the superficial appearance of a person or situation. Use 字面 specifically when discussing the interpretation of words, phrases, or text, rather than general appearances.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
