Saying who someone is
Using 係 to say A is B
This grammar lesson focuses on 係, the verb that lets you state someone's identity. You will see how the “A is B” pattern connects two things, such as a person and a relationship, which is exactly what introductions rely on. Understanding it means you can move from naming relatives to making real sentences about them.
Saying who someone is
To say what or who something **is**, Cantonese puts one little word between the two parts. It works like an equals sign: this **is** that.
A is B
A + 係 + B
係 means is, am, or are. To say what or who something is, put 係 between the two parts, like A 係 B. To say A is not B, use 唔係. Use 係 for naming things and people, the way English uses “is a”.
This is my mum
He is my older brother
She is not my older sister
A is B
To say who or what something is, put **係** between the two parts: A 係 B. For the negative, use **唔係**. It's the equals sign of Cantonese.
Frequently asked questions
What does 係 mean in Cantonese?
係 (hai6) is the verb that links a subject to what it is, much like “to be” in English. You use it to say things such as “this is my mother.”
How do you say A is B in Cantonese?
Place 係 between the two parts: the subject, then 係, then what they are. This identity pattern is one of the most useful sentence shapes in Cantonese.
When do you use 係 in Cantonese?
Use 係 to identify or define, as in “he is a student.” It is not used with plain adjectives, which is a common point this lesson clears up.