bin1 paau3鞭炮
Jyutpingbin1 paau3
Yalebīn paau
Definition
Firecracker; a long string of small red cylindrical explosives lit during celebrations.
colloquialfestivalother
How it's used
Firecrackers are illegal to possess or detonate within Hong Kong due to strict safety regulations. Consequently, this term is primarily used when discussing traditions in Mainland China or other regions where they remain legal. Locals often use the term 炮仗 instead of 鞭炮 in casual conversation.
Measure word
cyun3串chyunExamples
During the Lunar New Year, they love lighting firecrackers at the door.
Did you ever try lighting firecrackers in the countryside when you were little?
Related words
Common phrases
to light firecrackers
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 煙花, which refers to fireworks that launch into the sky to create visual displays. 鞭炮 specifically refers to the long, stringed firecrackers that produce loud snapping sounds on the ground.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
