jan2 si6隱士隐士
Jyutpingjan2 si6
Yaleyán sih
Definition
Hermit; a talented person who lives a life of seclusion, avoiding public affairs or achievements.
neutralpeople
How it's used
This term carries a romanticized, literary connotation of someone who intentionally rejects fame and worldly success to pursue personal cultivation or peace. It is rarely used to describe someone who is simply socially awkward or isolated by circumstance. When used in modern conversation, it often sounds slightly poetic or hyperbolic.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is like a hermit, he hasn't come out to see anyone for years.
Related words
Common phrases
living in seclusion in the mountains and forests
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 宅男, which refers to a modern shut-in who stays home to play games or use the internet. 隱士 implies a philosophical or voluntary detachment from society, whereas 宅男 is a contemporary label for a lifestyle choice often associated with technology.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
