din2典
Jyutpingdin2
Yaledín
Definition
Standard work of scholarship, canon, ceremony, or to mortgage.
- canon; classic; standard work of scholarship
- ceremony; celebration
- datedto mortgage; to pawn
neutralmoneyother
How it's used
While 典 carries formal meanings like canon or ceremony, it is most frequently encountered in daily life within the compound 典當, referring to the act of pawning items. It implies a temporary exchange of goods for cash, distinct from selling something outright. In academic or literary contexts, it serves as a prefix for high-status works or traditional standards.
Examples
He took his watch to the pawn shop to exchange for money.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 典當 with 賣, but 典當 specifically implies the possibility of redeeming the item later, whereas 賣 is a permanent transfer of ownership.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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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.
