san1 si2紳士绅士
Jyutpingsan1 si2
Yalesān sí
Definition
A gentleman; a man of good character and polite manners.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to a man who exhibits refined behavior, politeness, and social grace. While it carries a slightly formal or old-fashioned nuance, it is frequently used to describe someone who is chivalrous towards women or maintains composure in social settings. It is often paired with the concept of manners to emphasize a high standard of conduct.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
He is truly a gentleman with great manners.
Related words
Common phrases
gentlemanly demeanour
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe any random man, as it implies a specific level of sophistication and moral character rather than just gender.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
