how much广东话

How Much in Cantonese: A Comprehensive Guide to Expressing Quantities in Guangdong Dialect

Introduction

Cantonese, also known as Guangdong Dialect or simply Canton, is one of the major dialects of the Chinese language. It is widely spoken in Guangdong province and Hong Kong, making it an essential language for those who wish to communicate effectively with the locals. One common aspect of language use is the expression of quantities, which is fundamental for everyday conversations. In this article, we will delve into how to express "how much" in Cantonese, providing you with a comprehensive guide to this essential phrase.

Basic Structure of "How Much" in Cantonese

The basic structure of "how much" in Cantonese can be broken down into three parts:

1. 主体词 (Subject Word): The main word that represents the item or service you are inquiring about.

2. 量词 (Quantifier): A word that indicates the amount or quantity of the subject.

3. 多少 (How Much): The phrase used to ask for the price or quantity of the subject.

Common Expressions for "How Much" in Cantonese

1. How to Say "How Much" for Goods

When asking about the price of goods, you can use the following expressions:

- 多少钱 (Duōshǎo qián): How much money?

- 这个多少钱 (Zhège duōshǎo qián): How much is this?

- 那个多少钱 (Nàge duōshǎo qián): How much is that?

2. How to Say "How Much" for Services

When asking about the cost of services, such as transportation or dining, you can use these phrases:

- 这个多少钱 (Zhège duōshǎo qián): How much does this cost?

- 那个多少钱 (Nàge duōshǎo qián): How much does that cost?

- 坐车多少钱 (Zuò chē duōshǎo qián): How much is the fare?

- 吃饭多少钱 (Chīfàn duōshǎo qián): How much is the meal?

3. How to Say "How Much" for Prices of Products

When inquiring about the price of specific products, you can use:

- 这件衣服多少钱 (Zhèjiàn yīfu duōshǎo qián): How much is this piece of clothing?

- 那本书多少钱 (Nàběn shū duōshǎo qián): How much is that book?

Usage of Quantifiers

Quantifiers in Cantonese are used to specify the amount or quantity of the subject. Here are some common quantifiers:

- 个 (Gè): Used for singular objects.

- 件 (Tiàn): Used for clothing items.

- 本 (Běn): Used for books, magazines, or other similar items.

- 张 (Zhāng): Used for flat items like paper, money, or pictures.

- 条 (Tiáo): Used for long, thin objects like noodles, strips of meat, or fish.

- 顿 (Dùn): Used for meals.

- 次 (Cì): Used for services or actions.

Conclusion

Understanding how to express "how much" in Cantonese is crucial for effective communication in Guangdong and Hong Kong. By familiarizing yourself with the basic structure and common expressions, you will be well-equipped to ask for prices, quantities, or costs in a variety of contexts. Whether you're shopping for goods, using services, or simply engaging in everyday conversations, knowing these phrases will undoubtedly enhance your Cantonese-speaking experience.