san4 gaau1神交
Jyutpingsan4 gaau1
Yalesàhn gāau
Definition
To have a deep mutual understanding or friendship despite having rarely or never met in person.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This term implies a deep intellectual or emotional connection that exists despite a lack of physical proximity or face to face interaction. It is often used to describe online friends or people who share a strong rapport through writing or mutual interests. The tone is slightly literary or poetic, making it stand out in casual conversation.
Examples
Although we have never met, we can be considered soulmates who know each other well.
You two get along so well, when will you finally meet in person?
Related words
Common phrases
to have known each other in spirit for a long time
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a romantic relationship, as it specifically highlights the absence of physical contact. It is not used for people who see each other regularly but are not close.
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.
