ng5 coi2 ban1 fan1五彩繽紛五彩缤纷
Jyutpingng5 coi2 ban1 fan1
Yaleng chói bān fān
Definition
All the colors in profusion (idiom); a garish display
colloquialdescriptionsnature
How it's used
Focus on the visual impact of the scene rather than just listing colours. It implies a sense of vibrancy and variety that catches the eye, often used for festive decorations, fireworks, or a lively garden. While it is a four character idiom, it fits naturally into spoken Cantonese sentences without sounding overly formal.
Examples
faa1 jyun2 jap6 min6 di1 faa1 hoi1 dou3 ng5 coi2 ban1 fan1
花園入面啲花開到五彩繽紛。
The flowers in the garden are blooming in a riot of colours.
nei5 gok3 dak1 le1 gin2 saam1 hai6 mai6 taai3 gwo3 ng5 coi2 ban1 fan1 aa4
你覺得呢件衫係咪太過五彩繽紛呀？
Do you think this shirt is a bit too colourful?
Related words
Common phrases
ng5 coi2 ban1 fan1 ge3 dang1 sik1
五彩繽紛嘅燈飾
colourful festive lights
ng5 coi2 ban1 fan1 ge3 sai3 gaai3
五彩繽紛嘅世界
a colourful world
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a single object that happens to be multi-coloured, like a striped shirt. It is best reserved for scenes or displays that feel overwhelming or exceptionally bright due to the sheer variety of colours present.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
