zik6 cek3直尺
Jyutpingzik6 cek3
Yalejihk chek
Definition
Ruler; a flat, rigid measuring tool with straight edges and marked measurements used to measure length or draw straight lines.
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How it's used
While 直尺 is the formal term for a straight ruler, people in Hong Kong almost exclusively use the word 間尺 in daily life. You will mostly encounter 直尺 in school textbooks or technical contexts where precision is emphasized. Using 間尺 sounds much more natural and friendly when asking a classmate or colleague for one.
Measure word
zi1支jīExamples
The markings on this ruler are hard to see now.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 軟尺, which refers to a flexible measuring tape used for sewing or body measurements. Calling a soft measuring tape a 直尺 will cause confusion because the defining feature of a 直尺 is its rigid, straight edge.
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.
