dang1燈灯
Jyutpingdang1
Yaledāng
Definition
Light or lamp; any device that emits light for illumination, signalling, or decoration.
Example
colloquialhomeother
How it's used
While 燈 refers to the device itself, it is frequently used in compound words to describe specific types of lighting fixtures. In casual speech, people often omit the classifier entirely when referring to the general concept of light in a room. Note that the choice of classifier can vary based on the shape of the lamp, with 盞 being the most common for standard household lamps.
Measure word
zaan2盞jánExamples
The room is very dark, turn on the light quickly.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 燈 with 光, which refers to the light rays or brightness itself. Use 燈 for the physical object like a bulb or lamp, and use 光 to describe the quality of illumination.
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.
