muk6 jyu4 syu1木魚書木鱼书
Jyutpingmuk6 jyu4 syu1
Yalemuhk yùh syū
Definition
Wooden fish book; a songbook of Muyu songs, a traditional genre of narrative folk music from Guangdong.
writtenothercommunication
How it's used
These books represent a traditional form of Cantonese narrative singing that flourished in the Pearl River Delta. They were printed on thin paper and served as popular entertainment for the masses, often containing stories about folklore or daily life. Because they were meant to be read aloud or sung, the language used in them is a unique blend of classical and vernacular Cantonese.
Measure word
bun2本búnExamples
He really likes reading Muyu books and even knows how to sing a few lines.
Is this Muyu book very old?
Related words
Common phrases
Muyu songs
Common mistake
Learners often confuse these with modern songbooks or religious texts. While the name contains the word for a wooden fish, an instrument used in Buddhist chanting, these books are secular in nature and distinct from religious scriptures.
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.
