zou2早
Jyutpingzou2
Yalejóu
Definition
Early; happening before the expected or usual time.
colloquialtime
How it's used
Often functions as an adverb when modified by 啲 or 咁, indicating a shift in timing relative to expectations. It is frequently paired with verbs like 走 or 瞓 to describe finishing an activity ahead of schedule. When used to mean "good morning," it is shortened from 早晨 and serves as a casual, efficient greeting.
Examples
You should get up earlier tomorrow to go to work.
Why did you come back so early today?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 晏, which refers to being late or the afternoon. Learners sometimes mistakenly use 早 to mean "fast" or "quick," but it strictly refers to the time of occurrence rather than the speed of an action.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
