san1 gaau3新教
Jyutpingsan1 gaau3
Yalesān gaau
Definition
Protestantism; the Christian branch that split from Catholicism in the 16th century over theological differences.
neutralother
How it's used
While the term 新教 is technically accurate, most Hong Kongers simply use 基督教 to refer to Protestantism in daily life. Using 基督教 to mean Protestantism specifically is the standard convention, which helps distinguish it from 天主教. If you need to be precise about the historical split, 新教 is the correct term to use.
Examples
All of his family members are Protestants.
Do you know what the difference is between Protestantism and Catholicism?
Related words
Common phrases
Protestant
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 基督教 with the general term for Christianity. In Hong Kong, 基督教 specifically refers to Protestantism, not the umbrella term for all Christian denominations.
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.
