gin3 min6 lai5見面禮见面礼
Jyutpinggin3 min6 lai5
Yalegin mihn láih
Definition
A gift given to someone upon meeting them, typically for the first time, to show respect and goodwill.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of social etiquette and is almost exclusively used when meeting someone significant for the first time, such as a partner's family or a new business associate. While it can be a physical object, it is often a symbolic gesture to break the ice and show sincerity. It is rarely used for casual acquaintances or friends you meet through social circles.
Measure word
fan2份fánExamples
Remember to buy a gift when meeting your partner's parents for the first time.
What gift did you bring for them as a first-meeting present?
Related words
Common phrases
to give a first-meeting gift
to prepare a first-meeting gift
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a generic gift or souvenir. Using it for someone you have already met, even if it has been a long time, is incorrect as the term specifically highlights the first encounter.
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.
