sau2 san4手神
Jyutpingsau2 san4
Yalesáu sàhn
Definition
Luck, especially at gambling or games of chance.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the transient state of one's fortune in games of chance or activities involving manual skill. It implies a sense of being 'in the zone' or having a lucky streak rather than a permanent personality trait. People often use it to explain why someone is currently winning at mahjong or betting.
Examples
He has such good luck today, he wins money no matter what he buys.
Your luck has been mediocre lately, maybe you should take a break first.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 運氣, which is a general term for luck in life. 手神 is strictly tied to the immediate performance or outcome of a game or task.
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.
