bing1 gaa1兵家
Jyutpingbing1 gaa1
Yalebīng gā
Definition
Military strategist in ancient China; soldier or military commanders.
- military strategist in ancient China
- soldier; military commander
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the ancient Chinese philosophical school of military strategy or a master of such arts. It carries a formal, slightly literary tone and is often used in idioms or historical discussions rather than to describe a modern soldier. When used in the phrase 兵家必爭之地, it highlights a location that is strategically vital for any military force.
Examples
He studies history and really likes researching the tactics of military strategists.
Related words
Common phrases
a place of vital strategic importance
hard for even a strategist to predict
Common mistake
Do not use this to refer to a common soldier in a modern army, as that would be 士兵. Using it to describe a contemporary military person will sound archaic or confusingly academic.
Grammar color guide
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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.
