ling4 ci4凌遲凌迟
Jyutpingling4 ci4
Yalelìhng chìh
Definition
Lingchi, or death by a thousand cuts; an ancient Chinese execution method of slicing a criminal's flesh bit by bit.
neutralother
How it's used
Refers to a historical method of execution, but it is frequently used metaphorically in modern speech to describe extreme, prolonged suffering or a slow, agonizing process. It carries a heavy, visceral tone that implies a deliberate and cruel prolonging of pain. Unlike standard words for torture, it specifically evokes the imagery of being cut apart piece by piece.
Examples
This kind of punishment is truly inhumane, it is basically lingchi.
They are torturing me like this, how is it any different from lingchi?
Related words
Common phrases
to execute by lingchi
Common mistake
Avoid using this term to describe minor inconveniences or simple boredom, as it is reserved for severe, intense, or unbearable situations. Using it too lightly can sound overly dramatic or insensitive to the historical gravity of the term.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
