san4 zyu2 paai4神主牌
Jyutpingsan4 zyu2 paai4
Yalesành jyú pàih
Definition
Plaque for ancestors (memorial and worshipping purpose)
neutralfamilyother
How it's used
Beyond its literal meaning, this term is frequently used as a metaphor for something that is treated with excessive, rigid, or blind reverence. People might describe a set of outdated company rules or a useless bureaucratic procedure as a 神主牌 to imply it is being worshipped despite having no practical value.
Measure word
faai3塊faiExamples
keoi5 uk1 kei2 go3 san4 zyu2 paai2 fong3 hai2 bin1 aa4
佢屋企個神主牌放喺邊呀？
Where is the ancestral tablet kept in their home?
le1 faai3 san4 zyu2 paai2 ji5 ging1 cyun4 zo2 hou2 gei2 doi6 jan4
呢塊神主牌已經傳咗好幾代人。
This ancestral tablet has been passed down for several generations.
Related words
Common phrases
gung1 fung6 san4 zyu2 paai2
供奉神主牌
to enshrine an ancestral tablet
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 靈位, which refers to the memorial tablet or plaque specifically for a deceased person during the funeral or mourning period. While they serve similar functions, 神主牌 usually implies a more permanent, long-term ancestral veneration.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
