How to Use '同' (tung4) for Expressing Relations in Cantonese
Understanding '同' (tung4) in Cantonese
In Cantonese, the word '同' (pronounced tung4) is a versatile term used to express various types of relationships and connections between ideas. This article will explore its usage, providing learners with examples and contexts to deepen their understanding.
Using '同' to Mean 'With'
Perhaps the most common usage of '同' is to mean 'with'. It can link two nouns to show that they are associated or together in some action or context.
我同朋友去。
I went with my friend.
佢同佢媽傾偈。
She talked with her mother.
'同' as 'And'
In informal Cantonese, '同' can also function similarly to the English 'and'. It connects two related ideas or items in a sentence.
蘋果同橙。
Apples and oranges.
佢鍾意貓同狗。
He likes cats and dogs.
Expressing Comparison Using '同'
Another interesting use of '同' is in comparisons, where it can indicate equivalency or similarity between two entities.
呢個同嗰個一樣快。
This is as fast as that.
佢同佢弟弟一樣高。
She's as tall as her brother.
Forming Complex Sentences with '同'
When constructing more complex sentences, '同' can be employed to connect various clauses. This serves to create fluid, coherent sentences that bind actions or descriptions together.
我去咗舖頭同買咗食物。
I went to the store and bought food.
Further Reading
- Cantonese Class 101
Comprehensive resources for learning Cantonese.
- Cantonese Grammar Guide
Guide to Cantonese sentence structures and grammar rules.
- YouTube: Using '同' in Sentences
Video explanation on how '同' is used in conversation.