sau6壽寿
Jyutpingsau6
Yalesauh
Definition
Life span; longevity; old age.
neutralpeopletime
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in compound words rather than as a standalone noun in modern speech. It carries a formal or celebratory tone, often appearing in greetings or references to elderly people. When referring to a birthday, it is specifically reserved for older adults, particularly for significant milestones like the sixtieth or seventieth birthday.
Examples
May your fortune be as vast as the Eastern Sea and your life as long as the Southern Mountains.
Since it is his big birthday, of course we must celebrate.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to refer to a child's birthday, as it would sound bizarrely formal and out of place. Use 生日 instead for general purposes.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
