1. "Want" or "Desire"
This is the most common meaning of "mong" in Cantonese. It expresses a desire or a wish for something.
* Example: "Ngo mong jat ge bing" (我想要一件餅) - "I want a cookie."
2. "Hope" or "Wish"
"Mong" can also convey a hopeful expectation or a wish for something to happen.
* Example: "Ngo mong nei hou" (我希望你好) - "I hope you're well."
3. "Dream" or "Fantasy"
"Mong" can refer to a dream, either a nocturnal one or a daydream.
* Example: "Ngo mong dao le" (我做夢了) - "I dreamt."
4. "Expect" or "Anticipate"
"Mong" can also imply an expectation or anticipation of something.
* Example: "Ngo mong nei lai" (我期待你來) - "I'm expecting you to come."
5. "Hopeful" or "Optimistic"
"Mong" can sometimes be used to describe a person's hopeful or optimistic attitude.
* Example: "Nei haau mong ge" (你很樂觀的) - "You're very optimistic."
Important Notes:
* The exact meaning of "mong" often depends on the context and tone of the sentence.
* In some cases, "mong" can be used as a filler word, similar to "um" or "like" in English.
If you're unsure of the meaning in a specific situation, it's best to ask for clarification.