Explaining why
Link a reason and a result, sequence what happened, and add a contrast
Link a reason and a result, sequence what happened, and add a contrast. Work through clear examples, then lock it in with interactive Cantonese practice in the YumCha app.
Explaining why
When something goes wrong you need to explain it. Cantonese frames a reason and its result with **because... so**, lines up what happened next with **then**, and softens the bad news with an everyday **but**. Let's put a problem into words.
Because, so, then, but
因為 reason，所以 result，但係 contrast
Put 因為 in front of the reason and 所以 in front of the result: 因為塞車，所以遲到. Use 跟住 (then, next) to add what happened after, and 但係 (the everyday spoken "but") to add a contrast. In speech you can keep just 因為 or just 所以, you do not always need both.
Why are you late?
There was traffic, so I am late.
The bus was delayed, then I took a taxi, but I was still late.
Explaining why
To explain a problem, lead with the reason after **because** and the result after **so**. Chain the next step with **then**, and soften the bad part with the everyday spoken **but**. Now you can tell someone what went wrong and why.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Explaining why lesson free?
Yes. This Cantonese lesson is free to read online, with romanization and meanings for every word. In the YumCha app, your first lesson is free to try, and vocabulary practice, flashcards, and the dictionary stay free. A subscription unlocks the full interactive lesson path.
What romanization is used?
Both Jyutping and Yale, and you can switch between them. The romanization sits above every word, so you always know the pronunciation.
Do I need to read Chinese characters to start?
No. Romanization sits above every character and audio plays each word, so you can start speaking from your first lesson.