ci4 tong2祠堂
Jyutpingci4 tong2
Yalechìh tóng
Definition
An ancestral hall, or in slang contexts, male genitalia or a prison.
- an ancestral hall built to honor ancestors, sages, or martyrs
- slangmale reproductive organs
- slanga slang term for prison, especially Stanley Prison in Hong Kong
colloquialplacesslang
How it's used
While referring to a traditional ancestral hall, the term is also used as a slang nickname for prisons, particularly Stanley Prison, due to the imposing nature of the architecture. When used in the context of male anatomy, it is almost exclusively found in the specific phrase 拆祠堂, which implies a violent or destructive act against the genitals.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
They went back to their ancestral village to pay respects and burned incense at the ancestral hall.
I heard that the big ancestral hall in Stanley is very strict.
Related words
Common phrases
a nickname for Stanley Prison
to destroy or attack the male genitals
Common mistake
Do not confuse the literal meaning of a place for ancestor worship with the slang usage referring to a prison or the vulgar anatomical reference. Context is everything, as using the slang term in a formal or respectful setting regarding family history would be highly inappropriate.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
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