sap6 nin4 jan4 si6 gei2 faan1 san1十年人事幾番新十年人事几番新
Jyutpingsap6 nin4 jan4 si6 gei2 faan1 san1
Yalesahp nìhn yàhn sih géi fāan sān
Definition
Times have changed; massive changes have occurred over a long period of time.
colloquialtime
How it's used
This idiom is frequently used when revisiting a place or meeting old acquaintances after a long absence. It carries a sense of nostalgia or slight melancholy, acknowledging the inevitable passage of time and the transformation of one's surroundings. While it mentions ten years, it is used more broadly to describe any significant period of time where change has occurred.
Examples
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Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe minor or recent changes, as it specifically implies a long duration. It is also not meant to be used in formal business reports or professional writing, as it is a literary idiom that functions best in casual, reflective conversation.
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.
