sam1 gon1 pei4 fai3 san6心肝脾肺腎心肝脾肺肾
Jyutpingsam1 gon1 pei4 fai3 san6
Yalesām gōn pèih fai sahn
Definition
The five internal organs in Chinese medicine: heart, liver, spleen, lungs, and kidneys.
colloquialbodyhealth
How it's used
Beyond the literal medical meaning, this phrase is often used figuratively to describe one's entire physical being or health. It is frequently invoked when someone complains about feeling generally unwell or 'out of sorts' without pinpointing a specific ailment. The order of the organs is fixed by tradition and should not be rearranged.
Examples
He always says his internal organs are not feeling well.
Related words
Common phrases
to regulate the five internal organs
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the term 心肝寶貝, which is a term of endearment for a beloved person, usually a child. Using the full list of organs in a romantic or affectionate context would sound bizarre and clinical.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
