sau6 baan2壽板寿板
Jyutpingsau6 baan2
Yalesauh báan
Definition
Coffin, or the planks used to make a coffin.
colloquialother
How it's used
Refers specifically to the wooden boards or the finished casket, often carrying a more traditional or formal nuance than the common term 棺材. It is frequently associated with the cultural practice of buying one's own coffin in advance as a way to wish for longevity and good health, based on the homophony between 壽 and longevity.
Measure word
fu3副fuExamples
The craftsmanship of this coffin is really exquisite.
They bought the coffin in advance and kept it at home.
Related words
Common phrases
to buy a coffin
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in casual conversation as it is considered morbid or superstitious by many. Stick to 棺材 for neutral or everyday contexts.
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.
