cin2 zam1 dai1 coeng3淺斟低唱浅斟低唱
Definition
To sip wine slowly and sing softly; to feel relaxed, carefree, and at ease.
How it's used
This idiom originates from classical Chinese poetry describing a scene of drinking wine and singing softly, but in modern Cantonese, it has evolved into a metaphorical way to describe a state of leisure and relaxation. It carries a sophisticated and slightly literary tone, making it sound more elegant than common phrases like 休息吓. It is often used to describe a lifestyle or a mindset of slowing down amidst a fast-paced environment.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Because this is a four-character idiom with literary roots, using it in very casual or blunt situations can sound overly dramatic or pretentious. It is best reserved for descriptive writing or when you want to emphasize a deliberate, peaceful state of mind rather than just taking a quick nap.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
