zi6 seon3自信
Jyutpingzi6 seon3
Yalejih seun
Definition
Self-confidence; belief in oneself.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
Often paired with the verb 有 to describe someone who possesses this quality or 冇 to describe a lack thereof. It functions as a noun, but in casual speech, it behaves much like an adjective when modified by adverbs like 好 or 幾.
Examples
He is very confident in his work, and everyone trusts him.
Why are you so lacking in self-confidence?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a verb. While English speakers might say someone is confident, in Cantonese you must use the structure 有自信 to express that state.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
