sau1 je5收嘢
Jyutpingsau1 je5
Yalesāu yéh
Definition
An exclamation used when worshiping ancestors to ask them to receive the burnt offerings.
colloquialfamilyother
How it's used
This phrase functions as a ritualistic signal during traditional ancestor worship. It serves as a polite notification to the deceased that the burning of joss paper or other offerings has been completed and they are now free to collect them. It is considered a respectful gesture to ensure the offerings reach the intended recipients in the afterlife.
Examples
After burning the paper offerings, remember to say 'receive the items'.
Did you tell the ancestors to receive the offerings when you visited the grave?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase in casual contexts or when receiving physical items from living people, as it is strictly reserved for spiritual rituals involving the deceased.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
