zing6 hai6剩係剩系
Jyutpingzing6 hai6
Yalejihng haih
Definition
Only; solely; just.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Functions as an adverbial marker to restrict the scope of an action or state to a single item or condition. It is the preferred colloquial choice over the more formal 祇係 or 只是 in spoken Cantonese. It often carries a nuance of limitation or complaint, implying that the subject should have done more or that the situation is insufficient.
Examples
He only likes eating at this restaurant.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse it with 淨係, which is a common variant. While both are interchangeable in most contexts, 剩係 specifically emphasizes the remainder or what is left over, whereas 淨係 focuses purely on the exclusivity of the action.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
