zi6 ci2自此
Jyutpingzi6 ci2
Yalejih chí
Definition
Since then; from that point onward.
neutraltime
How it's used
Focuses on a clear turning point in time, often marking a permanent shift in a person's life or a situation. It is frequently used in narrative contexts to describe the aftermath of a significant event. Unlike Mandarin, it feels slightly more formal or literary in spoken Cantonese, where people might prefer using 從嗰陣開始 or 之後 instead.
Examples
He moved away, and I haven't seen him since then.
You must be more careful from now on and not make mistakes again.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a direct translation for 'from now on' in casual, everyday requests, as it can sound overly dramatic or like a line from a novel. For simple future-oriented instructions, use 之後 or 由而家開始 instead.
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.
