zoi6 pong4在旁
Jyutpingzoi6 pong4
Yalejoih pòhng
Definition
Beside; next to; at the side.
writtendescriptionsother
How it's used
Functions as a formal adverbial phrase that sounds significantly more literary than the common spoken equivalent 喺旁邊. It is frequently encountered in written notices, formal instructions, or news reports rather than casual conversation. Using it in daily speech can make the speaker sound overly serious or stiff.
Examples
He is doing homework at home, with his mom watching nearby.
When you were working, was there anyone assisting you nearby?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it as a direct preposition, but it acts as an adverbial modifier. It should not be followed immediately by a noun without a preposition like 喺, as it describes the state of being positioned nearby rather than indicating a specific location.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
