nin4 maan5年晚
Jyutpingnin4 maan5
Yalenìhn máahn
Definition
The end of the lunar year; the period leading up to the Lunar New Year.
colloquialtimefestival
How it's used
Refers specifically to the final days leading up to the Lunar New Year, typically the period when people are rushing to finish cleaning, shopping, and preparing for the festival. It carries a distinct sense of frantic energy and anticipation. It is often used to describe the atmosphere of the city or the busy state of individuals during this specific window of time.
Examples
You are so busy at the end of the year, yet you still have time to buy flowers?
The wet markets are really packed at the end of the year.
Related words
Common phrases
deep-fried sesame balls eaten at the end of the year
Lunar New Year fair
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 年底, which is a generic term for the end of any calendar year. 年晚 is culturally tied to the Lunar New Year and the specific traditions associated with it.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
