zing3 bei2正比
Jyutpingzing3 bei2
Yalejing béi
Definition
Directly proportional; describing two values that increase or decrease together.
neutralother
How it's used
Use this term primarily in formal or academic contexts to describe mathematical or logical relationships. It is almost always paired with the verb 成 to form the phrase 成正比. While it can be used in casual conversation, it often carries a slightly analytical or serious tone.
Examples
The effort you put in is directly proportional to your grades.
Is their income directly proportional to their working hours?
Related words
Common phrases
to be directly proportional
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple correlation or general similarity, as it specifically refers to a mathematical relationship where one value increases or decreases at a consistent rate relative to another.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
