hong4 dong3行當行当
Jyutpinghong4 dong3
Yalehòhng dong
Definition
The role types or character roles in Chinese opera, classified by gender, age, and personality.
neutralother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the traditional classification system for performers in Chinese opera, such as Cantonese opera or Peking opera. It categorizes actors based on age, gender, social status, and personality traits rather than just the plot role. Understanding these categories is essential for appreciating the stylized movements and vocal techniques required for each specific part.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
She has studied Cantonese opera for many years, which role type does she mainly perform?
The makeup and costumes for different role types are very different.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the general word 角色, which refers to a character in a play or movie. 行當 is a technical term strictly reserved for the specialized performance categories within traditional opera.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
