san1 suk1伸縮伸缩
Jyutpingsan1 suk1
Yalesān sūk
Definition
To lengthen and shorten, or to be stretchable and retractable.
neutraldaily actionsdescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the physical mechanism of objects that can be adjusted in length, such as antennas, tripod legs, or umbrellas. It is rarely used to describe abstract concepts like time or plans, where other verbs are preferred. Use it primarily for mechanical items that slide or telescope into themselves.
Examples
This stick is retractable, it is very convenient.
Can your table legs be adjusted in length?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with stretching body parts, which uses 伸展. Using 伸縮 for human movement sounds like a mechanical transformation rather than physical exercise.
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.
