先, 再, and 又
Cantonese often uses short sequencing words to organize action order and repetition.
Examples
CantoneseTranslation
我哋先食飯，再去睇戲。Ngo5dei6 sin1 sik6faan6, zoi3 heoi3 tai2hei3.
We will eat first, then go watch a movie.
你先休息，再繼續。Nei5 sin1 jau1sik1, zoi3 gai3zuk6.
Rest first, then continue.
佢又遲到喇。Keoi5 jau6 ci4dou3 laa3.
He is late again.
Pattern
先 + action, 再 + action / 又 + action or state
How it works
Cantonese often uses short sequencing words to organize action order and repetition. This pattern typically appears as 先 + action, 再 + action / 又 + action or state and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- 先 and 再 are strong default tools for ordering actions.
- 又 often signals repetition or the return of a situation.
Why it matters
Describe result, sequence, and how an action develops.
Use in context
These words are highly useful because Cantonese often sequences events with particles and adverbs rather than tense changes.