kei4 leon4麒麟
Jyutpingkei4 leon4
Yalekèih lèuhn
Definition
Qilin; a mythical Chinese unicorn, or a kirin, symbolising benevolence and prosperity.
neutralfestivalother
How it's used
Associated primarily with auspiciousness and prosperity, the image of the creature is frequently found in traditional folk arts and festivals. While it is a mythical beast, it is distinct from the dragon or phoenix in its specific association with benevolence and the arrival of wise rulers. In modern contexts, it is most commonly encountered through the cultural performance of the unicorn dance.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
Performing the unicorn dance is a Hakka cultural tradition.
Related words
Common phrases
unicorn dance
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
