saan1 ngok6山嶽山岳
Jyutpingsaan1 ngok6
Yalesāan ngohk
Definition
Towering, high, and massive mountains.
writtennature
How it's used
Literary and formal in nature, this term is rarely used in everyday spoken Cantonese. Native speakers almost exclusively use the word 山 to describe mountains, regardless of their size or height. Using this word in casual conversation will sound overly dramatic or like you are reciting a poem.
Measure word
zo2座jóExamples
Related words
Common phrases
lofty and towering mountains
Common mistake
Do not use this word in daily life when referring to a hike or a local hill, as it sounds extremely unnatural and pretentious. Stick to the simple word 山 for all contexts involving mountains.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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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.
