zi6 min2 soeng6字面上
Jyutpingzi6 min2 soeng6
Yalejih mín seuhng
Definition
Literally; on the surface; in a literal sense.
colloquialcommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
Use this phrase to clarify that you are focusing on the surface meaning of words rather than their figurative or idiomatic sense. It is frequently paired with verbs like 睇 or 理解 to signal a shift from a literal interpretation to a deeper or more contextual one.
Examples
Don't just interpret it literally.
Related words
Common phrases
to interpret literally
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean 'in reality' or 'actually', as it strictly refers to the linguistic or textual interpretation. Learners sometimes confuse it with 其實, which is used to introduce the actual truth or reality of a situation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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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.
