sang1 gei1生機生机
Jyutpingsang1 gei1
Yalesāng gēi
Definition
Signs of life, vitality, or a chance of survival.
- signs of life; vitality
- a chance of survival; a gleam of hope
neutraldescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Focuses primarily on the metaphorical sense of a turning point or a final opportunity in desperate situations. It is almost exclusively paired with the measure word 線 to describe a thin, fragile possibility of survival or recovery. While it can refer to biological life, it is far more common in professional or dramatic contexts to discuss the viability of a project or a person's prospects.
Measure word
sin3線sinExamples
The patient still has a glimmer of hope, don't give up.
Does this plan still have any chance of success?
Related words
Common phrases
a glimmer of hope
to show signs of life again
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 生命, which refers to the biological state of being alive. 生機 is specifically about the potential for life or success to continue when things look bleak.
Grammar color guide
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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.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
