gung3 si6貢士贡士
Definition
A successful candidate in the imperial examinations at the metropolitan level who has not yet taken the palace exam.
How it's used
This term is strictly historical and refers to a specific rank within the complex hierarchy of the imperial examination system. It denotes someone who has passed the metropolitan examination held in the capital but has not yet sat for the final imperial assessment. In modern Cantonese, it is only encountered in historical dramas, literature, or academic discussions about traditional Chinese governance.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 進士, which is the title granted after successfully passing the final palace examination. A 貢士 is a candidate who has qualified for the final stage, whereas a 進士 is a graduate who has already achieved the highest degree.
Grammar color guide
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.
