Over 30O Essential Cantonese Phrases: Beginners and Travellers Guide to Learning Cantonese

Q: How different is Cantonese from Mandarin for beginners?

Cantonese and Mandarin are significantly different languages with distinct pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar patterns. While both use Chinese characters, Cantonese has 6-9 tones compared to Mandarin's 4 tones , making pronunciation quite different. For beginners, it's best to focus on one language initially rather than trying to learn both simultaneously. If you're visiting Hong Kong or Guangdong Province specifically, learning Cantonese phrases will be more immediately useful than Mandarin.

Q: Is Cantonese still widely spoken in Hong Kong?

Yes, Cantonese remains the dominant spoken language in Hong Kong for daily conversations, business, and social interactions. While English and Mandarin are also official languages, most local Hong Kongers communicate primarily in Cantonese . Learning basic Cantonese phrases will significantly enhance your experience when interacting with locals, dining at traditional restaurants, or shopping in local markets [1] .

Q: Can I use these Cantonese phrases in Macau and mainland China?

These phrases work perfectly in Macau and Guangdong Province (including Guangzhou and Shenzhen), where Cantonese is widely spoken. In Macau, you'll also encounter Portuguese and English , but Cantonese remains primary for local interactions. In other parts of mainland China, Mandarin is more commonly understood , though many service industry workers in major cities may recognise basic Cantonese phrases due to Hong Kong's cultural influence.

Q: How important is tone pronunciation in Cantonese phrases?

Tone pronunciation is very important in Cantonese as it can completely change word meanings. However, don't let this discourage you— context often helps native speakers understand your intent even with imperfect tones. Start with common phrases and practice with audio resources when possible. Most Hong Kong and Macau residents are patient and appreciative when visitors attempt to speak Cantonese, even with pronunciation challenges [2] .

Q: Should I learn traditional or simplified Chinese characters for Cantonese?

For Cantonese regions like Hong Kong and Macau, traditional Chinese characters are standard . These areas have preserved traditional character usage in signs, newspapers, and official documents. Guangdong Province uses simplified characters following mainland China's system. Focus on spoken phrases initially , then gradually familiarise yourself with written characters based on your specific destination. Many signs in Hong Kong also include English translations to help visitors navigate.

Q: What are the most essential Cantonese phrases for first-time visitors?

Essential phrases include greetings like "你好" (hello), "唔該" (excuse me/thank you), and "幾多錢?" (how much?) . For dining, learn "我想要..." (I want...) and basic food vocabulary. Transportation phrases for asking directions are also invaluable. Master polite expressions and numbers first , as these appear in most daily interactions. Our guide prioritises these high-frequency phrases to help you communicate effectively from day one [3] .

Q: Is Cantonese really difficult to learn for beginners?

While Cantonese has a reputation for being challenging, it's not as impossibly difficult as often claimed . The 6 tones may seem intimidating at first , but with consistent practice, they become manageable. Unlike what some believe, you don't need to master all tones perfectly to communicate effectively. Start with essential phrases and focus on context rather than perfect pronunciation. Native speakers are usually patient and helpful when they see you're making an effort to learn their language.

Q: How do I say "I don't understand" and ask someone to speak slower in Cantonese?

Two crucial communication phrases are "我唔明" (ngo mm ming - I don't understand) and "你可唔可以講得慢啲啊?" (nei ho mm ho gong dat man di ye ah - Can you speak slower?) . These are essential for beginners. You can also say "我唔會講廣東話" (ngo mm wui gong gwong dung wa - I can't speak Cantonese) to let people know your language level. Most Hong Kong residents will switch to English or speak more slowly to help you understand.

Q: What makes Cantonese pronunciation unique compared to other languages?

Cantonese pronunciation features 6-9 tones that create musical patterns , making it sound quite different from English or other European languages. These tones are like short musical phrases that help with memorization once you get used to them. Practice with audio resources and repeat phrases out loud to develop your ear for the tones. The melodic nature of Cantonese actually makes phrases easier to remember than many tonal languages once you embrace the musical aspect.

Q: What are the best ways to practice Cantonese phrases effectively?

Effective practice involves listening to native speakers through Hong Kong media, films, and music while repeating phrases out loud. Focus on practical conversations you'll actually use in daily situations like ordering food or asking for directions. Use our typing tool to practice writing and pronunciation. Start with 5-10 essential phrases daily rather than trying to memorize large amounts at once. Consistency is more important than intensity when learning Cantonese.

Are you planning to visit Hong Kong, Macau, or Guangdong Province and want to connect with locals in their native tongue?

In this comprehensive guide, we've compiled over 300 essential Cantonese phrases organised into practical categories including traditional greetings and polite expressions, conversation starters for social interactions, and essential phrases for dining, shopping, and transportation. We've also included numbers, time expressions, and date formats commonly used in Cantonese.

Our collection focuses on phrases most useful for travellers and beginners to help you navigate daily situations in Cantonese-speaking regions. For additional translations or typing support, you can use our Chinese typing and translation tool, which supports both traditional and simplified Chinese characters.

Greetings and Pleasantries in Cantonese

Cantonese culture in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau values courtesy and face (面子). Traditional greetings show respect through tone and timing. Hong Kong's international nature blends Eastern etiquette with Western customs. Macau's Portuguese influence adds unique cultural elements to social interactions.

Hello.
你好。
(nei5 hou2。)
Hi.
你好。
(nei5 hou2。)
Thank you.
多謝你。
(do1ze6 nei5。)
Thank you very much.
多謝晒你。
(do1ze6 saai3 nei5。)
You are welcome.
唔使客氣。
(m4sai2 haak3hei3。)
Yes. / No.
係。 / 唔得。
(hai6。 / m4dak1。)
Please.
請。
(cing2。)
Excuse me. / Sorry.
唔好意思。 / 對唔住。
(m4hou2 ji3si1。 / deoi3 m4 zyu6。)
Don't worry.
唔使擔心。
(m4sai2 daam1sam1。)
Good morning.
早晨。
(zou2san4。)
Good afternoon.
午安。
(ng5on1。)
Good evening.
晚安。
(maan5on1。)
Good night.
早唞。
(zou2tau2。)
See you later.
遲啲見。
(ci4di1 gin3。)
Goodbye.
拜拜。
(baai1baai3。)
Bye.
拜拜。
(baai1baai3。)
How are you?
你點啊？
(nei5 dim2aa3？)
I am fine. And you?
我好好呀。同你？
(ngo5 hou2hou2 aa3。 tung4 nei5？)
What is your name?
你叫咩名？
(nei5 giu3 me1 meng2？)
My name is Steve.
我叫史提夫。
(ngo5 giu3 si2 tai4fu1。)
I am pleased to meet you.
我好高興見到你。
(ngo5 hou2 gou1hing3 gin3dou2 nei5。)
Bless you! (when sneezing)
祝福你！（打噴嚏時）
(zuk1fuk1 nei5！（ daa2 pan3 ci1 si4）)
Cheers!
乾杯！
(gon1bui1！)
Good luck!
祝你好運！
(zuk1 nei5 hou2wan6！)
Happy birthday!
生日快樂！
(saang1jat6 faai3lok6！)
Congratulations!
恭喜你！
(gung1hei2 nei5！)

Starting Conversation Between People

Cantonese conversations emphasize family (家庭), work (工作), and food (食物). Hong Kong's cosmopolitan nature blends traditional Chinese values with international perspectives. Personal questions show genuine care and interest in building relationships (關係). Humility and respect for elders remain important cultural aspects.

Do you live here?
你住喺呢度？
(nei5 zyu6 hai2 ni1dou6？)
Where are you going?
你去緊邊？
(nei5 heoi3 gan2 bin1？)
What are you doing?
你做緊乜嘢？
(nei5 zou6 gan2 mat1je5？)
Today is a nice day, isn't it?
今日係個好日子，係咪？
(gam1jat6 hai6 go3 hou2 jat6zi2， hai6mai6？)
Where are you from?
你係邊度嚟嘅？
(nei5 hai6 bin1dou6 lai4 ge3？)
I am from India.
我嚟自印度。
(ngo5 lai4 zi6 jan3dou6。)
Do you like it here?
你鍾唔鍾意呢度？
(nei5 zung1 m4 zung1ji3 ni1dou6？)
Yes, I like it here.
係，我鍾意呢度。
(hai6， ngo5 zung1ji3 ni1dou6。)
How long are you here for?
你喺度幾耐？
(nei5 hai2 dou6 gei2noi6？)
I am here for three days/weeks.
我喺度三日 / 星期。
(ngo5 hai2 dou6 saam1 jat6 / sing1kei4。)
How old are you?
你幾歲？
(nei5 gei2 seoi3？)
I am 26 years old.
我今年26歲。
(ngo5 gam1nin4 26 seoi3。)
What is your occupation?
你嘅職業係咩？
(nei5 ge3 zik1jip6 hai6 me1？)
I am a Software Engineer.
我係個軟件工程師。
(ngo5 hai6 go3 jyun5gin2 gung1cing4 si1。)
I am a student.
我係個學生。
(ngo5 hai6 go3 hok6saang1。)
I am studying Medical Science.
我讀緊醫學科學。
(ngo5 duk6 gan2 ji1hok6 fo1hok6。)
I am retired.
我退休咗。
(ngo5 teoi3jau1 zo2。)
What is your email/phone number/address?
你嘅電郵 / 電話號碼 / 地址係咩？
(nei5 ge3 din6jau4 / din6waa2 hou6maa5 / dei6zi2 hai6 me1？)
Here is my email/phone number/address.
呢個係我嘅電郵/電話號碼/地址。
(ni1 go3 hai6 ngo5 ge3 din6jau4/ din6waa2 hou6maa5/ dei6zi2。)
Are you on Facebook or Twitter?
你係 Facebook 定推特？
(nei5 hai6 Facebook ding6 teoi1dak6？)
Keep in touch!
保持聯絡！
(bou2ci4 lyun4lok3！)
It has been great meeting you.
見到你真係好開心。
(gin3dou2 nei5 zan1hai6 hou2 hoi1sam1。)

Personal Pronouns in Cantonese

Cantonese pronouns reflect cultural values of hierarchy and respect. The choice of pronoun depends on age, social status, and formality level. Understanding these distinctions is essential for appropriate communication in Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau societies.

1. Personal Pronouns

Personal pronouns refer to the subject or object of a sentence.

I
我
(ngo5)
You (singular)
你（單數）
(nei5（ daan1 sou3）)
You (plural)
你（複數）
(nei5（ fuk1sou3）)
He
佢
(keoi5)
She
佢
(keoi5)
It
佢
(keoi5)
We
我哋
(ngo5dei6)
They
佢哋
(keoi5dei6)

2. Possessive Pronouns

Possessive pronouns indicate ownership. For e.g., This book is mine. (Este libro es mio.). There are several types of possessive pronouns depending on the gender and number of the noun referring to.

My / Mine
我嘅 / 我嘅
(ngo5 ge3 / ngo5 ge3)
Your / Yours (singular)
你嘅 / 你嘅（單數）
(nei5 ge3 / nei5 ge3（ daan1 sou3）)
His / Her / Its / Your (singular)
佢/佢/佢/你嘅（單數）
(keoi5/ keoi5/ keoi5/ nei5 ge3（ daan1 sou3）)
Our / Ours
我哋嘅 / 我哋嘅
(ngo5dei6 ge3 / ngo5dei6 ge3)
Your / Yours (plural)
你嘅 / 你嘅（複數）
(nei5 ge3 / nei5 ge3（ fuk1sou3）)
Their / Theirs
佢哋 / 佢哋嘅
(keoi5dei6 / keoi5dei6 ge3)

3. Demonstrative Pronouns

Demonstrative pronouns emphasize a specific person or a thing. For e.g., This is my daughter. (Esta es mi hija.)

This
呢個
(ni1 go3)
That
嗰個
(go2 go3)
These
呢啲
(ni1di1)

Transportation

Hong Kong's MTR system is world-renowned for efficiency and cleanliness. Guangdong has extensive high-speed rail connections. Traditional trams (電車) and Star Ferry offer nostalgic transport options. Public transport integrates Octopus Card payment system. Understanding Cantonese transport terms helps navigate the region effectively.

Getting Around

Hong Kong's transport network includes MTR, buses, trams, and ferries. Navigation apps work well, but local knowledge helps. Peak hours can be crowded. Always stand right on escalators and let passengers exit first - important etiquette in Cantonese culture.

How do I get to the Zoo?
我點去動物園？
(ngo5 dim2 heoi3 dung6mat6 jyun4？)
Can we get there by public transport?
我哋可唔可以搭公共交通工具去到嗰度？
(ngo5dei6 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 daap3 gung1gung6 gaau1tung1 gung1geoi6 heoi3dou3 go2dou6？)
What time does the bus / train / plane leave?
巴士 / 火車 / 飛機幾點開？
(baa1si2 / fo2ce1 / fei1gei1 gei2 dim2 hoi1？)
What time does it arrive?
幾點到？
(gei2 dim2 dou3？)
How long will it be delayed?
會延遲幾耐？
(wui5 jin4ci4 gei2noi6？)
Is this seat free?
呢個位係咪免費？
(ni1 go3 wai2 hai6mai6 min5fai3？)
I want to get off here.
我想喺呢度落車。
(ngo5 soeng2 hai2 ni1dou6 lok6ce1。)

Buying Tickets

Hong Kong and Guangdong offer extensive transport networks. Octopus Card is essential for seamless travel. Advance booking recommended for high-speed rail and flights. Tourist passes available for multiple trips. Customer service counters provide multilingual assistance.

Where can I buy a ticket?
我可以喺邊度買飛？
(ngo5 ho2ji5 hai2 bin1dou6 maai5fei1？)
Do I need to book a ticket in advance?
我係咪要提前訂飛？
(ngo5 hai6mai6 jiu3 tai4cin4 ding6 fei1？)
Can I have a one-way / return ticket, please?
請問我可唔可以有單程 / 來回機票？
(cing2man6 ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 jau5 daan1cing4 / loi4wui4 gei1piu3？)
Can I have a 1st-class / 2nd-class ticket to the Zoo?
我可唔可以攞張去動物園嘅一等 / 二等門票？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 lo2 zoeng1 heoi3 dung6mat6 jyun4 ge3 jat1 dang2 / ji6dang2 mun4piu3？)
I would like an aisle / a window seat.
我想要個通道/窗口座位
(ngo5 soeng2 jiu3 go3 tung1dou6/ coeng1hau2 zo6wai2)
Can I get a day / weekly ticket?
我可唔可以攞日飛/周飛？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 lo2 jat6fei1/ zau1fei1？)
I would like to cancel / change / confirm my ticket, please.
我想取消/更改/確認我嘅機票，唔該。
(ngo5 soeng2 ceoi2siu1/ gang1goi2/ kok3jing6 ngo5 ge3 gei1piu3， m4goi1。)

Bus

Hong Kong buses offer extensive coverage from Nathan Road to rural areas. Bus stops display route maps in Chinese and English. Exact fare required (no change given). Priority seats available for elderly and disabled passengers. Air-conditioned comfort on most routes.

Which bus goes to the airport?
邊架巴士去機場？
(bin1 gaa3 baa1si2 heoi3 gei1coeng4？)
What is the bus number?
巴士號碼係幾多？
(baa1si2 hou6maa5 hai6 gei2do1？)
Where is the bus stop?
巴士站喺邊？
(baa1si2 zaam6 hai2 bin1？)
What is the next stop?
下一站係咩？
(haa6 jat1 zaam6 hai6 me1？)
I would like to get off at the shopping center.
我想喺購物中心落車。
(ngo5 soeng2 hai2 kau3mat6 zung1sam1 lok6ce1。)

Train

MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is Hong Kong's efficient metro system connecting Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. Guangdong's high-speed rail connects major cities. Platform barriers ensure safety. Clear signage in Chinese and English helps navigation.

Where is the nearest underground / subway / metro station?
最近嘅地鐵站喺邊度？
(zeoi3 kau6 ge3 dei6 tit3 zaam6 hai2 bin1 dou6?)
What station is this?
呢度係乜嘢站？
(ni1 dou6 hai6 mat1 je5 zaam6?)
Which platform does the train leave from?
火車喺邊個月台開？
(fo2 ce1 hai2 bin1 go3 wut6 toi4 hoi1?)
Which line goes to Victoria Station?
邊條線去維多利亞站？
(bin1 tiu4 sin3 heoi3 wai4 do1 lei6 aa3 zaam6?)
Do I need to change trains?
我使冇使轉車？
(ngo5 sai2 m4 sai2 zyun2 ce1?)
Which carriage is for Heathrow?
邊節車係去希思羅機場？
(bin1 jit3 ce1 si4 heoi3 hei1 si1 lou4 gei1 coeng4?)

Taxi

Hong Kong taxis come in red (urban), green (New Territories), and blue (Lantau Island) colors. All have meters and accept Octopus Card payments. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Cross-border taxis available for mainland China travel.

I would like a taxi at 2pm.
我想喺下晝兩點搭的士。
(ngo5 soeng2 hai2 haa6zau3 loeng5 dim2 daap3 dik1si2。)
Where is the taxi stand?
的士站喺邊？
(dik1si2 zaam6 hai2 bin1？)
Please take me to this address.
唔該帶我去呢個地址。
(m4goi1 daai3 ngo5 heoi3 ni1 go3 dei6zi2。)
Could you please take me to the hotel?
你可唔可以帶我去酒店？
(nei5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 daai3 ngo5 heoi3 zau2dim3？)
Could you please take me to the train station?
你可唔可以帶我去火車站？
(nei5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 daai3 ngo5 heoi3 fo2ce1 zaam6？)
How much does this cost?
呢個要幾多錢？
(ni1 go3 jiu3 gei2do1 cin2？)
Is the price negotiable?
價錢可議？
(gaa3cin4 ho2ji5？)
Can you give me a discount?
可唔可以畀個折扣我？
(ho2 m4 ho2ji5 bei2 go3 zit3kau3 ngo5？)
Please turn on the meter.
唔該開電表。
(m4goi1 hoi1 din6biu1。)
How long will it take to get to the airport?
去機場要幾耐？
(heoi3 gei1coeng4 jiu3 gei2noi6？)
Stop here.
喺呢度停低。
(hai2 ni1dou6 ting4dai1。)
Can you give me a receipt, please?
可唔可以畀張收據我？
(ho2 m4 ho2ji5 bei2 zoeng1 sau1geoi3 ngo5？)

Accommodation

Hong Kong offers world-class luxury hotels and budget accommodations. Traditional guesthouses (客棧) in Guangdong provide authentic experiences. Macau blends Portuguese pousadas with modern resorts. Cantonese hospitality emphasizes warmth and attentive service, reflecting deep cultural traditions of treating guests as family.

Finding Accommodation, Booking, Checking In & Out

Hong Kong hotels emphasize efficiency and service excellence. Many staff speak English and Cantonese. Business hotels in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui cater to international travelers. Traditional inns in Guangdong villages offer authentic cultural immersion with home-style Cantonese cuisine.

Where is the hotel?
間酒店喺邊？
(gaan1 zau2dim3 hai2 bin1？)
How much is it per night?
每晚幾錢？
(mui5maan5 gei2 cin2？)
Is breakfast included?
包早餐嗎？
(baau1 zou2caan1 maa1？)
I would like to book a room, please.
我想訂間房，唔該。
(ngo5 soeng2 deng6gaan1 fong2， m4goi1。)
I have a reservation for 2 nights/weeks.
我預訂咗兩晚 / 星期。
(ngo5 jyu6deng6 zo2 loeng5 maan5 / sing1kei4。)
Is there wireless internet access available here?
呢度有冇無線上網？
(ni1dou6 jau5mou5 mou4sin3 soeng5mong5？)
Do you have double/single/family rooms?
你有冇雙人 / 單人 / 家庭房？
(nei5 jau5mou5 soeng1 jan4 / daan1jan4 / gaa1ting4 fong4？)
Can I see the room?
我可唔可以睇到間房？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 tai2dou2 gaan1 fong2？)
When/where is breakfast served?
早餐幾時/邊度供應？
(zou2caan1 gei2si4/ bin1dou6 gung1jing3？)
Can I use the laundry facilities?
我可唔可以用洗衣設施？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 jung6 sai2ji1 cit3si1？)
Do you arrange tours?
你安排唔安排旅行團？
(nei5 ngon1paai4 m4 ngon1paai4 leoi5hang4 tyun4？)
Could I have my key, please?
我可唔可以攞我個鎖匙？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 lo2 ngo5 go3 so2si4？)
Sorry, I lost my key!
對唔住，我唔見咗我條鎖匙！
(deoi3 m4 zyu6， ngo5 m4gin3 zo2 ngo5 tiu4 so2si4！)
There is no hot water.
冇熱水。
(mou5 jit6seoi2。)
The air conditioner/heater/fan is not working.
冷氣 / 暖氣 / 風扇唔運作。
(laang5hei3 / nyun5hei3 / fung1sin3 m4 wan6zok3。)
What time is checkout?
結帳幾點？
(git3 zoeng3 gei2 dim2？)
I am leaving now.
我而家走緊。
(ngo5 ji4gaa1 zau2 gan2。)
Could I have my deposit back, please?
我可唔可以攞返我嘅按金？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 lo2 faan1 ngo5 ge3 on3gam1？)
Can you call a taxi for me?
你可唔可以幫我叫的士？
(nei5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 bong1 ngo5 giu3 dik1si2？)

Camping

Camping in Hong Kong's country parks offers scenic mountain views. Guangdong province has designated camping areas near rivers and temples. Outdoor activities respect feng shui principles and environmental conservation. Always follow local guidelines and respect nature.

Where is the nearest campsite?
最近嘅露營地點喺邊？
(zeoi3gan6 ge3 lou6jing4 dei6dim2 hai2 bin1？)
Can I camp here?
我可唔可以喺呢度露營？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 hai2 ni1dou6 lou6jing4？)
Who do I ask to stay here?
我要邊個留喺度？
(ngo5 jiu3 bin1 go3 lau4 hai2 dou6？)
Is the water drinkable?
啲水係咪飲得？
(di1 seoi2 hai6mai6 jam2dak1？)
How much do you charge for a caravan / tent?
大篷車/帳篷收幾多錢？
(daai6 pung4ce1/ zoeng3pung4 sau1 gei2do1 cin2？)

Home Staying / Staying with Locals

Homestays in Cantonese villages offer authentic cultural experiences. Traditional hospitality includes sharing meals with extended family. Guests participate in daily activities like morning tai chi and evening tea ceremonies. Respect for elders and family harmony are central values.

Can I stay at your place?
我可唔可以住你屋企？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 zyu6 nei5 uk1kei2？)
I have my own sleeping bag.
我有自己嘅睡袋。
(ngo5 jau5 zi6gei2 ge3 seoi6doi2。)
Can I bring anything for the meal?
我可唔可以帶啲咩嘢嚟食飯？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 daai3 di1 me1je5 lai4 sik6faan6？)
Can I do the dishes?
我可唔可以洗碗？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 sai2 wun2？)
Thank you for your hospitality.
多謝你嘅好客。
(do1ze6 nei5 ge3 hou2haak3。)

Shopping

Hong Kong offers world-class shopping from luxury malls in Central to street markets in Mong Kok. Traditional wet markets (街市) sell fresh produce. Guangdong markets feature local crafts and specialties. Bargaining is common in street markets but not in department stores. Octopus Card is widely accepted.

Where is a supermarket?
邊度有超市？
(bin1dou6 jau5 ciu1si5？)
Where can I buy souvenirs?
邊度有得買手信？
(bin1dou6 jau5dak1 maai5 sau2seon3？)
I would like to buy vintage or antique items.
我想買復古或者古董物品。
(ngo5 soeng2 maai5 fuk6gu2 waak6ze2 gu2dung2 mat6ban2。)
How much is it?
幾錢呀？
(gei2 cin2 aa3？)
Can you write down the price?
可唔可以寫低價錢？
(ho2 m4 ho2ji5 se2dai1 gaa3cin4？)
Do you accept credit/debit cards?
你接受唔接受信用卡/扣帳卡？
(nei5 zip3sau6 m4 zip3sau6 seon3jung6kaat1/ kau3 zoeng3 kaa1？)
Do you accept cryptocurrencies?
你接受唔接受加密貨幣？
(nei5 zip3sau6 m4 zip3sau6 gaa1mat6 fo3bai6？)
Could I have a bag, please?
我可唔可以有個袋？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 jau5 go3 doi2？)
I don't need a bag, thanks.
我唔需要個袋，唔該。
(ngo5 m4 seoi1jiu3 go3 doi2， m4goi1。)
Could I have a receipt, please?
請問我可唔可以攞張收據？
(cing2man6 ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 lo2 zoeng1 sau1geoi3？)
I would like to return this, please.
我想退返呢個，唔該。
(ngo5 soeng2 teoi3 faan1 ni1 go3， m4goi1。)
I would like my money back, please.
我想要返我啲錢，唔該。
(ngo5 soeng2 jiu3 faan1 ngo5 di1 cin2， m4goi1。)
That's too expensive.
噉樣太貴喇。
(gam2joeng2 taai3gwai3 laa3。)
Can you lower the price?
可唔可以降低價錢？
(ho2 m4 ho2ji5 gong3dai1 gaa3cin4？)
I will give you 5 dollars.
我會畀5蚊你。
(ngo5 wui5 bei2 5 man1 nei5。)

Safe Travel

Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau are generally very safe regions with low crime rates and excellent healthcare systems. However, knowing emergency phrases in Cantonese ensures you can communicate effectively during unexpected situations and access help when needed.

Emergencies

Emergency services in Hong Kong (999), Guangdong (110/119/120), and Macau (999) respond quickly. Most operators speak Cantonese and Mandarin, with some English support available.

Help!
幫！
(bong1！)
There's been an accident.
發生咗意外。
(faat3sang1 zo2 ji3ngoi6。)
Thief!
賊！
(caak6！)
Fire!
火！
(fo2！)
Stop!
停止！
(ting4zi2！)
It's an emergency!
呢個係緊急情況！
(ni1 go3 hai6 gan2gap1 cing4fong3！)
Do you have a first-aid kit?
你有冇急救包？
(nei5 jau5mou5 gap1gau3 baau1？)
Call a doctor/police!
叫醫生 / 警察啦！
(giu3 ji1sang1 / ging2caat3 laa1！)
Call an ambulance?
叫救護車？
(giu3 gau3wu6 ce1？)
Could you please help us/me?
你可唔可以幫我哋 / 我？
(nei5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 bong1 ngo5dei6 / ngo5？)
I'm lost.
我迷路咗。
(ngo5 mai4lou6 zo2。)

Police

Police services in Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau are professional and efficient. Crime rates are low, but knowing how to report incidents and communicate with officers ensures proper assistance when needed.

Where is the police station?
警署喺邊？
(ging2cyu5 hai2 bin1？)
I want to report a robbery.
我想報案搶劫
(ngo5 soeng2 bou3ngon3 coeng2gip3)
I have been robbed.
我畀人搶咗。
(ngo5 bei2 jan4 coeng2 zo2。)
He/She has been assaulted.
佢/佢已經畀人襲擊過。
(keoi5/ keoi5 ji5ging1 bei2 jan4 zaap6gik1 gwo3。)
My wallet was stolen?
我個銀包畀人偷咗？
(ngo5 go3 ngan4baau1 bei2 jan4 tau1 zo2？)
I have lost my wallet.
我唔見咗我個銀包。
(ngo5 m4gin3 zo2 ngo5 go3 ngan4baau1。)
I have been wrongly accused by her.
我畀佢錯誤指控咗。
(ngo5 bei2 keoi5 co3m6 zi2hung3 zo2。)
Can I call someone?
我可唔可以打畀人？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 daa2bei2 jan4？)
Can I call a lawyer?
我可唔可以叫律師？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 giu3 leot6si1？)
I want to contact my embassy.
我想聯絡我嘅大使館。
(ngo5 soeng2 lyun4lok3 ngo5 ge3 daai6si5 gun2。)

Health

Healthcare systems in Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau are modern and well-equipped. Public hospitals provide emergency care, while private clinics offer additional services. International health insurance is widely accepted.

Where is the nearest hospital/doctor?
最近嘅醫院/醫生喺邊？
(zeoi3gan6 ge3 ji1jyun2/ ji1sang1 hai2 bin1？)
I need a doctor who speaks English.
我需要一個識講英文嘅醫生。
(ngo5 seoi1jiu3 jat1go3 sik1 gong2 jing1 man2 ge3 ji1sang1。)
Could I see a male/female doctor?
我可唔可以睇男 / 女醫生？
(ngo5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 tai2naam4 / neoi5 ji1sang1？)
Where is the nearest chemist?
最近嘅化學家喺邊？
(zeoi3gan6 ge3 faa3hok6 gaa1 hai2 bin1？)
I have been vaccinated for Covid/Hepatitis.
我已經接種咗新冠肺炎/肝炎疫苗。
(ngo5 ji5ging1 zip3zung3 zo2 san1gun3fai3jim4/ gon1jim4 jik6miu4。)
I have a fever.
我發燒。
(ngo5 faat3siu1。)
I am sick.
我病咗。
(ngo5 beng6 zo2。)
He/She/My friend is sick.
佢/佢/我朋友病咗。
(keoi5/ keoi5/ ngo5 pang4jau5 beng6 zo2。)
I have been vomiting.
我一直嘔緊。
(ngo5 jat1zik6 au2 gan2。)
I have altitude sickness.
我有高山症。
(ngo5 jau5 gou1saan1 zing3。)
I am seasick.
我好海病。
(ngo5 hou2hoi2 beng6。)
I am allergic to peanuts.
我對花生過敏。
(ngo5 deoi3 faa1sang1 gwo3man5。)
I can't move my leg!
我郁唔到隻腳！
(ngo5 juk1 m4 dou2 zek3 goek3！)
My (hand/leg) is swollen.
我（手/腳）腫咗。
(ngo5（ sau2/ goek3） zung2 zo2。)
I have a toothache.
我牙痛。
(ngo5 ngaa4tung3。)
My dentures are broken.
我啲假牙壞咗。
(ngo5 di1 gaa2ngaa4 waai6 zo2。)
My gum hurts.
我個牙齦好痛。
(ngo5 go3 ngaa4ngan4 hou2tung3。)
I have run out of medication.
我用完藥
(ngo5 jung6jyun4 joek6)
I need a prescription for blood pressure medication.
我需要血壓藥嘅處方。
(ngo5 seoi1jiu3 hyut3aat3 joek6 ge3 cyu5fong1。)
I am on medication for asthma.
我食緊哮喘藥
(ngo5 sik6 gan2 haau1cyun2 joek6)

Disabilities

I have a disability.
我有殘疾。
(ngo5 jau5 caan4zat6。)
I need assistance.
我需要協助。
(ngo5 seoi1jiu3 hip3zo6。)
Is there wheelchair access?
有冇輪椅通道？
(jau5mou5 leon4ji2 tung1dou6？)
Is there a disabled toilet?
有冇殘疾人士廁所？
(jau5mou5 caan4zat6 jan4si6 ci3so2？)
Is there a lift?
有冇升降機？
(jau5mou5 sing1gong3 gei1？)
Could you help me cross this street?
你可唔可以幫我過呢條街？
(nei5 ho2 m4 ho2ji5 bong1 ngo5 gwo3 ni1 tiu4 gaai1？)
Is there a wheelchair space?
有冇輪椅位？
(jau5mou5 leon4ji2 wai2？)

Past, Present and Future Time

Morning
朝早
(ziu1zou2)
Afternoon
晏晝
(ngaan3 zau3)
Evening
傍晚
(bong6maan5)
Night
夜晚
(je6maan5)
Today
今日
(gam1jat6)
Tomorrow
聽日
(ting1jat6)
Tomorrow Morning
聽日朝早
(ting1jat6 ziu1zou2)
Day After Tomorrow
聽日之後
(ting1jat6 zi1hau6)
Yesterday
琴日
(kam4 jat6)
Yesterday Evening
尋晚
(cam4maan5)
Day Before Yesterday
昨天前一天
(zok3tin1cin4 jat1tin1)
This Week / Next Week / Last Week
今個星期 / 下星期 / 上星期
(gam1go3 sing1kei4 / haa6 sing1kei4 / soeng6 sing1kei4)
This Month / Next Month / Last Month
今個月 / 下個月 / 上個月
(gam1go3 jyut6 / haa6go3 jyut6 / soeng6go3 jyut6)
This Year / Next Year / Last Year
今年 / 下年 / 上年
(gam1nin4 / haa6 nin4 / soeng6 nin4)
Now
而家
(ji4gaa1)
Later
遲啲
(ci4di1)
Before
之前
(zi1cin4)
Until May
直到五月
(zik6dou3 ng5 jyut6)
Within a Week
一個星期內
(jat1go3 sing1kei4 noi6)
Within an hour
一個鐘之內
(jat1go3 zung1 zi1noi6)
In (three) days
喺（三）日內
(hai2 （ saam1） jat6noi6)
In (ten) minutes
喺（十）分鐘之後
(hai2 （ sap6） fan1zung1 zi1hau6)

The Calender

Sunday
星期日
(sing1kei4 jat6)
Monday
星期一
(sing1kei4 jat1)
Tuesday
星期二
(sing1kei4 ji6)
Wednesday
星期三
(sing1kei4 saam1)
Thursday
禮拜四
(lai5baai3 sei3)
Friday
星期五
(sing1kei4 ng5)
Saturday
星期六
(sing1kei4 luk6)
January
一月
(jat1 jyut6)
February
二月
(ji6 jyut6)
March
三月，行軍
(saam1 jyut6， hang4gwan1)
April
四月
(sei3 jyut6)
May
可能
(ho2nang4)
June
六月
(luk6 jyut6)
July
七月
(cat1jyut6)
August
八月
(baat3 jyut6)
September
九月
(gau2 jyut6)
October
十月
(sap6 jyut6)
November
十一月
(sap6jat1 jyut6)
December
十二月
(sap6ji6 jyut6)
Summer
夏天
(haa6tin1)
Autumn
秋天
(cau1tin1)
Winter
冬天
(dung1tin1)
Spring
春天
(ceon1tin1)

Clock Basic in Cantonese

What time is it?
而家幾點？
(ji4gaa1 gei2 dim2？)
Quarter past one / two.
過咗一/兩嘅四分一。
(gwo3 zo2 jat1/ loeng5 ge3 sei3 fan6 jat1。)
Quarter to one / two.
四分之一到一/兩個。
(sei3 fan6zi1 jat1 dou3 jat1/ loeng5 go3。)
Half past one / two.
過咗一/兩過半。
(gwo3 zo2 jat1/ loeng5 gwo3 bun3。)
Twenty past one / two.
二十過去一/二。
(ji6 sap6 gwo3heoi3 jat1/ ji6。)
Twenty to one / two.
二十至一/兩個。
(ji6 sap6 zi3 jat1/ loeng5 go3。)
It's 1:30 pm / 2:15 am.
而家係下晝一點半 / 凌晨兩點15分。
(ji4gaa1 hai6 haa6zau3 jat1dim2 bun3 / ling4san4 loeng5 dim2 15 fan1。)
At what time?
幾點？
(gei2 dim2？)
On what date?
幾點？
(gei2 dim2？)
At ...
喺 ...
(hai2 ...)
Second(s)
第二次
(dai6ji6 ci3)
Minute(s)
分鐘）
(fan1zung1）)
Hour(s)
鐘頭）
(zung1tau4）)
Day
日
(jat6)
Week
禮拜
(lai5baai3)
Month
月
(jyut6)
Year
年
(nin4)
Decade
年代
(nin4doi6)
Century
世紀
(sai3gei2)

Numbers and Amount in Cantonese

Numbers are fundamental in Cantonese culture, especially for business, addresses, and phone numbers. Traditional Chinese numerals are used alongside Arabic numbers. The concept of lucky numbers (8) and unlucky numbers (4) influences daily life in Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau.

Cardinal Numbers

Cardinal numbers form the foundation of Cantonese counting. Understanding tones is crucial as different tones can change meanings. The Cantonese number system follows standard Chinese patterns with unique pronunciations.

0 (zero)
0 （零）
(0 （ ling4）)
1 (one)
1 （一）
(1 （ jat1）)
2 (two)
2 （兩個）
(2 （ loeng5 go3）)
3 (three)
3 （三）
(3 （ saam1）)
4 (four)
4 （四）
(4 （ sei3）)
5 (five)
5（五）
(5（ ng5）)
6 (six)
6 （六）
(6 （ luk6）)
7 (seven)
七（七）
(cat1（ cat1）)
8 (eight)
8 （八）
(8 （ baat3）)
9 (nine)
9 （九）
(9 （ gau2）)
10 (ten)
十（十）
(sap6（ sap6）)
11 (eleven)
十一（十一）
(sap6jat1（ sap6jat1）)
12 (twelve)
12 ( 十二個 )
(12 ( sap6ji6 go3 ))
13 (thirteen)
十三（十三）
(sap6saam1（ sap6saam1）)
14 (fourteen)
十四（十四）
(sap6 sei3（ sap6 sei3）)
15 (fifteen)
十五（十五）
(sap6ng5（ sap6ng5）)
16 (sixteen)
十六（十六）
(sap6 luk6（ sap6 luk6）)
17 (seventeen)
十七（十七）
(sap6cat1（ sap6cat1）)
18 (eighteen)
18 （十八）
(18 （ sap6baat3）)
19 (nineteen)
19（十九）
(19（ sap1gau1）)
20 (twenty)
20 ( 二十個 )
(20 ( ji6 sap6 go3 ))
21 (twenty-one)
21 ( 二十一 )
(21 ( ji6 sap6 jat1 ))
30 (thirty)
30（三十）
(30（ saam1sap6）)
40 (forty)
四十（四十）
(sei3sap6（ sei3sap6）)
50 (fifty)
50 ( 五十 )
(50 ( ng5sap6 ))
60 (sixty)
六十（六十）
(luk6sap6（ luk6sap6）)
70 (seventy)
七十（七十）
(cat1sap6（ cat1sap6）)
80 (eighty)
八十（八十）
(baat3sap6（ baat3sap6）)
90 (ninety)
九十（九十）
(gau2sap6（ gau2sap6）)
100 (one hundred)
100 ( 一百 )
(100 ( jat1 baak3 ))
101 (one hundred one)
101 ( 一百一 )
(101 ( jat1baak3 jat1 ))
200 (two hundred)
200 ( 兩百 )
(200 ( loeng5 baak3 ))
201 (two hundred one)
201 ( 兩百一 )
(201 ( loeng5 baak3 jat1 ))
500 (five hundred)
五百（五百）
(ng5baak3（ ng5baak3）)
1,000 (one thousand)
一千（一千）
(jat1cin1（ jat1cin1）)
2,000 (two thousand)
2000 （兩千）
(2000 （ loeng5 cin1）)
2,001 (two thousand one)
2001 ( 兩千一 )
(2001 ( loeng5 cin1 jat1 ))
2,102 (two thousand one hundred two)
2,102 ( 兩千一百二 )
(2,102 ( loeng5 cin1 jat1baak3 ji6 ))
10,000 (ten thousand)
一萬（一萬）
(jat1maan6（ jat1maan6）)
100,000 (one hundred thousand)
10 萬（十萬）
(10 maan6（ sap6 maan6）)
1,000,000 (one million)
1，000，000（一百萬）
(1，000，000（ jat1baak3 maan6）)
1,000,000,000 (one billion)
1,000，000，000（十億）
(1,000，000，000（ sap6 jik1）)

Ordinal Numbers

Ordinal numbers in Cantonese are formed by adding "第" (dai6) before the cardinal number. They are essential for dates, rankings, floors, and sequences in both formal and informal situations.

First (1^st)
第一（第一個 < 支持 > 第）
(dai6jat1（ dai6jat1 go3 < zi1ci4 > dai6 ）)
Second (2^nd)
第二次（第二次 < 補充 > 第）
(dai6ji6 ci3（ dai6ji6 ci3 < bou2cung1 > dai6 ）)
Third (3^rd)
第三（第三個 < 補 > 第三）
(dai6saam1（ dai6saam1 go3 < bou2 > dai6saam1 ）)
Fourth (4^th)
第四（第四個 < 補充 > 第）
(dai6sei3（ dai6sei3 go3 < bou2cung1 > dai6 ）)
Fifth (5^th)
第五（第五個 < 補充 > 第）
(dai6ng5（ dai6ng5 go3 < bou2cung1 > dai6 ）)
Sixth (6^th)
第六（第六個 < 補充 > ）
(dai6luk6（ dai6luk6 go3 < bou2cung1 > ）)
Seventh (7^th)
第七個（第七個 < 補充 > 第）
(dai6cat1 go3（ dai6cat1 go3 < bou2cung1 > dai6 ）)
Eighth (8^th)
第八（第八個 < 補充 > 第）
(dai6 baat3（ dai6 baat3 go3 < bou2cung1 > dai6 ）)
Ninth (9^th)
第九（第九個 < 補充 > ）
(dai6gau2（ dai6gau2 go3 < bou2cung1 > ）)
Tenth (10^th)
第十名（第十次 < 補充 > 第）
(dai6 sap6 ming4（ dai6 sap6 ci3 < bou2cung1 > dai6 ）)

Amount

Understanding quantities and amounts is crucial for shopping, ordering food, and daily transactions. These expressions help communicate precise quantities and make comparisons in Cantonese-speaking regions.