faan4 gaan1凡間凡间
Jyutpingfaan4 gaan1
Yalefàahn gāan
Definition
The mortal world or human world, as opposed to the realm of the gods in traditional beliefs.
neutralother
How it's used
Often used in fantasy contexts or when contrasting the mundane, messy reality of human existence with a more idealized or divine realm. It carries a slightly literary or dramatic weight, making it sound out of place in strictly professional or technical discussions. People frequently use it to highlight the contrast between the simplicity of human life and the complexity of higher powers or supernatural beings.
Examples
He is just like a person in the mortal world, enjoying eating and sleeping.
Do you think this is the mortal world? How could so many good things happen?
Related words
Common phrases
to descend into the mortal world
the mundane mortal world
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe the physical world in a scientific or geographical sense, as it is strictly tied to mythological or spiritual frameworks. It is not a synonym for the Earth or the planet.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
