sau2 seon3手信
Jyutpingsau2 seon3
Yalesáu seun
Definition
Souvenirs or small gifts bought for friends and family during a trip.
colloquialtravelpeople
How it's used
Carrying the cultural expectation of sharing one's travel experiences, this term specifically refers to items brought back for others rather than personal purchases. It is a social obligation to bring back small gifts for close colleagues or family members after returning from a trip. The items are typically edible local specialties or small trinkets that represent the destination.
Measure word
fan2份fánExamples
Remember to bring back souvenirs after your trip.
This souvenir is something I bought in Taiwan.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin term 紀念品, which is a broader term for any souvenir or memorabilia. Handing someone a souvenir you bought for yourself and then decided you did not want is not considered a proper 手信.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
