cin1 gan1千斤
Jyutpingcin1 gan1
Yalechīn gān
Definition
One thousand catties, a traditional unit of weight equivalent to approximately 500 or 605 kilograms.
neutralnumbers
How it's used
Refers to a traditional unit of weight rather than a precise metric measurement. It is frequently used in hyperbolic expressions to describe something extremely heavy or burdensome, rather than in technical or commercial contexts where kilograms are standard.
Examples
This item weighs a thousand jin, how are we supposed to move it?
Related words
Common phrases
a heavy burden
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the term 千金, which is a respectful way to address someone else's daughter. The pronunciation is identical, so context is the only way to distinguish between the weight unit and the honorific.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
