saam1 baat3 sin3三八線三八线
Jyutpingsaam1 baat3 sin3
Yalesāam baat sin
Definition
The 38th parallel north; the military demarcation line separating North and South Korea.
colloquialplacesother
How it's used
Beyond its literal geographical meaning, this term is frequently used metaphorically in daily life to describe a strict, non negotiable boundary between two people or groups. It often implies a sense of tension or a complete lack of communication across the divide. You might hear it used jokingly to describe a line drawn on a shared desk between students or siblings.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
How is it over at the 38th parallel now?
The relationship between the two of them is as clearly demarcated as the 38th parallel.
Related words
Common phrases
to draw a clear line between two parties
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the slang term 三八, which is a derogatory way to describe a gossipy or foolish woman. Using the full term 三八線 keeps the geographical context clear and avoids accidental insults.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
