zing3 haau2正巧
Jyutpingzing3 haau2
Yalejing háau
Definition
By coincidence; happening just at the right time.
neutraldaily actions
How it's used
Although 正巧 is understood in Cantonese, it sounds more formal or literary compared to the ubiquitous 咁啱. You will hear 咁啱 used in almost every casual situation where a coincidence occurs. Use 正巧 if you want to sound slightly more precise or if you are writing a message that requires a more standard tone.
Examples
I coincidentally bumped into him while I was out walking.
Do you happen to have any extra money to lend me?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often overuse 正巧 in daily speech where 咁啱 is much more natural. Using 正巧 in a very casual setting can make you sound like you are reading from a textbook or a formal news report.
Grammar color guide
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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.
