hung4 can4紅塵红尘
Jyutpinghung4 can4
Yalehùhng chàhn
Definition
The mortal, secular world and its troubles and distractions.
neutralpeopleother
How it's used
Often used in literary or philosophical contexts to describe someone who has become disillusioned with the vanity and suffering of ordinary life. While it carries a Buddhist undertone, it is frequently used in casual conversation to describe someone who has adopted a detached or indifferent attitude toward societal pressures and material success.
Examples
He seems to have seen through the secular world and no longer fights for anything.
You still haven't seen through the secular world, how can you truly let go?
Related words
Common phrases
to be disillusioned with the secular world
the turbulent and chaotic secular world
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal dust or dirt. It is a metaphorical term specifically tied to the concept of worldly attachments and should not be used when talking about actual household cleaning or physical debris.
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.
