sei3 sing1四聲四声
Jyutpingsei3 sing1
Yalesei sīng
Definition
The four traditional tone categories in Chinese languages: level, rising, departing, and entering.
neutralother
How it's used
This term refers to the historical classification of tones in Middle Chinese, which serves as the foundation for understanding tonal evolution in modern dialects. While Cantonese is famous for having more than four tones, the concept of 四聲 remains the essential framework for linguistic analysis and classical poetry study. It is rarely used in casual daily conversation unless discussing language learning or literature.
Examples
You need to pay attention to the changes in the four tones when learning Cantonese.
Do you know what the traditional four tones are?
Related words
Common phrases
the four tones and the level/oblique tonal categories
Common mistake
Learners often confuse the historical 四聲 with the actual number of tones in modern Cantonese, which has six to nine tones depending on the analysis. Do not assume that 四聲 implies Cantonese only has four tones.
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.
