maau4 saan1茅山
Jyutpingmaau4 saan1
Yalemàauh sāan
Definition
Maoshan, a prominent sect of Taoism.
colloquialother
How it's used
Refers primarily to the Taoist school, but in Hong Kong pop culture, it is frequently linked to folk magic, exorcism, and supernatural practices. It often appears in horror films or ghost stories as a source of mystical power used to ward off spirits. The term carries a slightly mysterious or superstitious connotation rather than a strictly academic or religious one for most locals.
Examples
Do you believe in these Maoshan spells?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general Taoism, as the term is specifically associated with occult or ritualistic practices in local folklore. Using it to describe mainstream Taoist worship is inaccurate.
Grammar color guide
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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.
