cing1 mui4 zuk1 maa5青梅竹馬青梅竹马
Jyutpingcing1 mui4 zuk1 maa5
Yalechīng mùih jūk máh
Definition
Childhood friends of the opposite sex.
neutralpeopleemotion
How it's used
This idiom carries a nostalgic and romantic undertone, often implying a deep bond that has existed since early childhood. While it can describe a platonic friendship, it is frequently used to suggest a potential or existing romantic relationship between the two parties. It is most commonly used to describe people who grew up in the same neighborhood or attended the same school together.
Examples
They have played together since they were little; they really are childhood sweethearts.
You two have known each other since childhood, why aren't you close?
Related words
Common phrases
to be childhood sweethearts
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe any childhood friend, but the term specifically implies a bond between two people of the opposite sex. Using it for same-sex friends can sound confusing or incorrect to native speakers.
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.
