sai3 ngai6細藝细艺
Jyutpingsai3 ngai6
Yalesai ngaih
Definition
A pastime, hobby, or activity to kill time.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Refers specifically to low-stakes activities or hobbies taken up simply to occupy one's hands or mind when bored. It carries a sense of casualness and is rarely used to describe serious professional pursuits or major life passions. People often use it when suggesting ways to avoid boredom during long commutes or quiet weekends.
Measure word
joeng2樣yéungExamples
What pastimes do you usually have to kill time?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 興趣, which implies a genuine interest or passion for a subject. A 細藝 is something you do just to pass the time, whereas an 興趣 is something you actively enjoy and want to improve at.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
