Core sentence orderCantoneseA1

係 sentences

Use 係 for identity and simple equational statements in a clear beginner-friendly way.

Examples

CantoneseTranslation
佢係老師。Keoi5 hai6 lou5si1.

She is a teacher.

我係學生。Ngo5 hai6 hok6saang1.

I am a student.

呢度係圖書館。Ni1dou6 hai6 tou4syu1gun2.

This is the library.

Pattern

subject + 係 + noun

How it works

Use 係 for identity and simple equational statements in a clear beginner-friendly way. This pattern typically appears as subject + 係 + noun and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.

What to notice

  • 係 often links two noun-like ideas in a direct way.
  • This pattern is especially common in introductions and simple explanations.

Why it matters

Start with predictable patterns that make beginner Cantonese feel usable.

Use in context

Identity statements are one of the cleanest entry points for Cantonese grammar.