san1 nin4 lau4 lau4新年流流
Definition
During the festive New Year season, typically followed by a mention of what not to do or an inauspicious event.
How it's used
This phrase carries a strong sense of cultural taboo, emphasizing that the Lunar New Year is a time for harmony and good fortune. It acts as a rhetorical device to scold someone for inappropriate behavior or to express frustration when an unlucky event occurs during this sensitive period. Using this phrase immediately signals that the speaker expects a higher standard of conduct or luck due to the festive atmosphere.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple time marker like 新年期間, but it is strictly used to frame a complaint or a warning about bad behavior or misfortune. It is never used to describe positive events or neutral activities.
Grammar color guide
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.
