deoi3 lyun4對聯对联
Jyutpingdeoi3 lyun4
Yaledeui lyùhn
Definition
A pair of antithetical poetic couplets with matching structure, tonal patterns, and word classes.
neutralfestivalother
How it's used
Traditionally displayed on red paper during the Lunar New Year, these couplets are a hallmark of Chinese literary culture. They must strictly follow rules regarding tone patterns and grammatical structure, making them a challenging test of one's command of the language. While often seen as decorative, they are also used in formal settings like funerals or temple entrances to convey specific messages or blessings.
Measure word
fu3副fuExamples
During the New Year, we put up antithetical couplets at the door.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse the noun 對聯 with the verb phrase 對對聯, where the first 對 acts as a verb meaning to compose or match. Ensure you use the correct measure word, as 副 is the standard classifier for a set of couplets.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
