sap6 jan4 saang1 gau2 ban2十人生九品
Jyutpingsap6 jan4 saang1 gau2 ban2
Yalesahp yàhn sāang gáu bán
Definition
People have all kinds of different temperaments and personalities.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This phrase serves as a philosophical framework for personal development and moral character in traditional Chinese culture. It is rarely used in casual small talk but appears frequently in advice, self-reflection, or when discussing the virtues of a respected individual. It encapsulates a holistic approach to living that prioritizes inner peace and social harmony over material success.
Examples
You should learn the nine qualities of life and not be so stubborn.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not mistake this for a common idiom used in everyday banter, as it carries a heavy moral and didactic tone. Using it in a lighthearted or sarcastic context can sound overly preachy or pretentious.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
