saam1 ng5 sing4 kwan4三五成群
Jyutpingsaam1 ng5 sing4 kwan4
Yalesāam ńgh sìhng kwàhn
Definition
In small groups; in groups of three to five people.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This idiom describes a casual, unorganized gathering of people rather than a formal assembly. It often implies that the people are chatting or hanging out, and it can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation if the group is perceived as loitering or up to no good.
Examples
After school, the students walk in small groups to catch the bus.
What are you all doing gathered in small groups here?
Related words
Common phrases
walking in small groups
chatting in small groups
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a large, organized, or professional gathering. It specifically refers to small, informal clusters of people.
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.
