zi6 jau3自幼
Jyutpingzi6 jau3
Yalejih yau
Definition
Since childhood; from an early age.
neutraltimepeople
How it's used
Refers to a state or habit that has persisted from a very young age. It carries a slightly formal or literary tone compared to the more common spoken phrase 由細到大. It is frequently used in biographical contexts or when describing someone's long-standing personality traits.
Examples
He has liked drawing since he was a child.
Did you grow up in Hong Kong since you were a child?
Related words
Common phrases
studious since childhood
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it as a noun phrase, but it functions strictly as an adverb. Avoid using it to describe a specific event that happened once in childhood, as it implies a continuous state or habit.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
