daan2疍
Jyutpingdaan2
Yaledáan
Definition
The Tanka people, a boat-dwelling group in Southern China.
neutralpeople
How it's used
Historically referring to boat dwelling communities in Southern China, this term is now primarily used in academic or historical contexts. It is often paired with 人 to form 疍家人 to describe the people themselves. While once a common descriptor, it is best used with sensitivity as it carries specific historical connotations regarding social status and lifestyle.
Examples
They used to be boat dwellers, that is, Tanka people.
Do you know what the characteristics of Tanka culture are?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 蛋, which means egg. While the characters look visually similar, they are distinct in meaning and usage, and 疍 is specifically reserved for this cultural group.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
