deoi3 zoeng3對仗对仗
Jyutpingdeoi3 zoeng3
Yaledeui jeung
Definition
To write matching lines in couplets, poetry, or parallel prose with opposing tones and matching parts of speech.
writtenother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the structural and tonal symmetry required in classical Chinese literary forms. While it implies a high level of linguistic precision, it is frequently used in casual conversation to praise someone for crafting a clever or well-matched phrase, even outside of formal poetry.
Examples
This pair of couplets is very neatly balanced.
Related words
Common phrases
neatly balanced in structure and tone
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general rhyming, as it focuses on grammatical category and tonal patterns rather than just sound. It is strictly a literary term and sounds unnatural if used to describe everyday casual speech.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
