san4 wai1神威
Jyutpingsan4 wai1
Yalesàhn wāi
Definition
Invincible might; awe-inspiring power or martial prowess.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a grand, almost theatrical weight, often used to describe someone who commands respect through their overwhelming strength or presence. It is frequently found in martial arts contexts or when describing a legendary figure whose reputation precedes them. Unlike everyday words for strength, it implies a sense of awe and authority that borders on the mythical.
Examples
He really has a lot of martial prowess when he practices boxing.
Who dares to challenge his invincible might?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common adjective like 強勁, but it is much more formal and dramatic. Using it to describe a simple physical task or a minor achievement will sound sarcastic or overly grandiose.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
