gai1 jat6雞日鸡日
Jyutpinggai1 jat6
Yalegāi yaht
Definition
The first day of the first month in the lunar calendar, traditionally known as the Day of the Chicken.
colloquialtimefestival
How it's used
Refers specifically to the first day of the lunar calendar, which is the start of the Spring Festival. While it is a traditional term, most people in modern Hong Kong prefer using the term 初一 to refer to this day. Using 雞日 can sound slightly more formal or old fashioned in daily conversation.
Examples
Will you go back to your hometown during the first day of the lunar year?
The weather seems quite nice on the first day of the lunar year this year.
Related words
Common phrases
visiting relatives on the first day of the lunar year
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the zodiac animal of the year, as 雞日 is strictly a date reference and not related to the Year of the Rooster.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
