gam1 sang1今生
Jyutpinggam1 sang1
Yalegām sāng
Definition
This life; the duration from birth to death of a person currently living.
neutraltimeother
How it's used
Carries a heavy, often poetic or philosophical weight, frequently appearing in contexts involving fate or karmic connection. It is rarely used in mundane conversation about daily schedules or short-term plans. When people discuss their life as a whole, they typically use 一世 or 一輩子 instead.
Examples
We are fated to meet in this life, we must cherish it.
What is the thing you most want to accomplish in this life?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe your current age or current living situation, as it specifically refers to the entire span of one's existence in the context of reincarnation.
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.
