coi2 dang1綵燈彩灯
Jyutpingcoi2 dang1
Yalechói dāng
Definition
Festive lantern used as a decoration during traditional festivals.
colloquialfestivalother
How it's used
Refers specifically to decorative lanterns used for festive occasions rather than functional lighting. While often associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival, it is also commonly used during the Lunar New Year. The term implies a sense of celebration and visual spectacle, often found in public displays or organized carnivals.
Measure word
zaan2盞jánExamples
The park is full of beautiful festive lanterns for the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Did you go to see the festive lanterns this year?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with common household lamps or flashlights, as it is strictly reserved for decorative, festive contexts. Using it to describe a standard light bulb or a desk lamp will sound unnatural 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.
