pan4 zin6貧賤贫贱
Jyutpingpan4 zin6
Yalepàhn jihn
Definition
Poor and lowly; of low social status and impoverished.
writtenpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong literary and moral weight, often appearing in idioms or formal reflections on life rather than casual conversation. It describes a state of being both financially destitute and socially marginalized, implying a lack of resources and status. Using it in everyday speech can sound overly dramatic or like you are quoting a classical text.
Examples
They lived in poverty and low status before, and endured for a long time.
It is when you are poor and lowly that you can best see who your true friends are.
Related words
Common phrases
a couple living in poverty
a friend made during times of poverty
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply broke or having a bad day. It is a heavy term that implies a long-term, systemic condition of being both poor and socially disrespected, so it can sound offensive if applied to someone's current financial struggle.
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.
