jik6 lam4弈林
Jyutpingjik6 lam4
Yaleyihk làhm
Definition
The chess world or circles of board game players.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This term is a highly specific and somewhat literary way to refer to playing chess, often carrying a sense of elegance or tradition. In everyday colloquial Cantonese, most people simply use 下棋 or 捉棋 instead. Using this term can sound slightly formal or even poetic, so it is rarely heard in casual, fast-paced conversation.
Examples
Would you like to play chess with me when you are free?
The two of them are playing chess in the park.
Related words
Common phrases
a master of chess
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general term for any board game, but it is strictly reserved for Chinese chess. Using it for card games or modern board games will sound unnatural and confusing to native speakers.
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.
