fung6 zi2 sing4 fan1奉子成婚
Definition
To have a shotgun wedding; to get married because of an unplanned pregnancy.
How it's used
This term is a clever play on words, replacing the formal 奉旨, which means to act under imperial decree or official order, with the character 子, meaning child. It carries a slightly gossipy or judgmental tone when used in conversation, as it highlights the unplanned nature of the marriage. While it is widely understood, it is best used in informal settings among friends rather than in professional or highly formal contexts.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a standard arranged marriage or a formal union, as the term specifically implies that the pregnancy is the primary catalyst for the wedding. Using it in a formal or celebratory speech might come across as rude or insensitive to the couple.
Grammar color guide
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.
