ping4 zak1平仄
Jyutpingping4 zak1
Yalepìhng jāk
Definition
The level and oblique tones in traditional Chinese phonology.
writtenother
How it's used
This term is strictly used within the context of classical Chinese poetry and prosody. It functions as a technical classification system rather than a description of modern spoken Cantonese tones. While Cantonese preserves the Middle Chinese tone categories better than Mandarin, the actual rules for composing poetry based on these categories are highly specific and distinct from everyday speech.
Examples
You need to pay attention to tone patterns when writing poetry so it sounds good.
Related words
Common phrases
tonal patterns and metrical rules
to be particular about tonal patterns
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the modern Cantonese tone system, which includes nine tones. Applying modern tone numbers directly to the binary classification of this term will lead to errors in poetic composition.
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.
