saam1 sang1 jau5 hang6三生有幸
Jyutpingsaam1 sang1 jau5 hang6
Yalesāam sāng yáuh hahng
Definition
Extremely fortunate or honored to meet or be with someone.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This idiom carries a heavy sense of humility and formality despite its common use in social settings. It is essentially a polite way to express gratitude when receiving a compliment or an opportunity from someone of higher status or respect. While it originates from Buddhist concepts of past, present, and future lives, it is now strictly used as a hyperbolic expression of being lucky or privileged.
Examples
It is a true honour to have dinner with you today.
I am deeply honoured to have earned your appreciation.
Related words
Common phrases
truly a great honour
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual or intimate settings with close friends, as it sounds overly dramatic or sarcastic. It is best reserved for professional introductions, formal thank yous, or when meeting someone you genuinely admire.
Grammar color guide
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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.
