08 March 2012

The Basics of Time

O’clock in Cantonese is dím2 jūng1.

As an experiment, I will start combining the Yale and Lau system.  Those familiar with the Yale system can ignore the Lau numberings, and those familiar only with the Lau system can ignore the Yale vowels and markings.

To say 1 o’clock, just say the number 1 and then dím2 jūng1

In general, to say X o’clock, say X and then dím2 jūng1

1 o’clock = yāt1 dím2 jūng1

2 o’clock = leung dím2 jūng1  (not yih dím2 jūng1)

3 o’clock = saam dím2 jūng1

4 o’clock = say dím2 jūng1

5 o’clock = m dím2 jūng1

6 o’clock = loc dím2 jūng1

7 o’clock = chāt1 dím2 jūng1

8 o’clock = baat dím2 jūng1

9 o’clock = gáu dím2 jūng1

10 o’clock = sahp dím2 jūng1

11 o’clock =sahp yāt dím2 jūng1

12 o’clock = sahp yih dím2 jūng1