cyu2 neoi5處女处女
Jyutpingcyu2 neoi5
Yalechyú néuih
Definition
First-time; maiden; a debut or inaugural occurrence of something.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While 處女 literally refers to a virgin, it is frequently used as a prefix to mean debut or first attempt. It carries a slightly formal or literary tone when used this way, often appearing in reviews or media. For everyday speech regarding general first experiences, people prefer using 第一次.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use 處女 to describe a person's first time doing a non-creative activity, as it sounds overly clinical or potentially offensive. Stick to 第一次 for general life experiences.
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.
