zou2 jat1 paai4早一排
Jyutpingzou2 jat1 paai4
Yalejóu yāt pàaih
Definition
Not long ago; a while ago.
colloquialtime
How it's used
Refers to a vague period in the recent past, typically ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months. It functions as a temporal adverbial phrase and is interchangeable with 早排. Using the extra 一 adds a slightly more conversational or narrative rhythm to the sentence.
Examples
The weather was quite cold not long ago.
Where did you go for your trip not long ago?
Related words
Common phrases
just a short while ago
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to a specific date or a very distant past. It is strictly for recent, non-specific time frames and does not work well in formal written reports.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
