si1 maa5 cing3司馬秤司马秤
Jyutpingsi1 maa5 cing3
Yalesī máh ching
Definition
Traditional Chinese measuring balance.
neutralotherdaily actions
How it's used
This term refers specifically to the traditional handheld balance scale used for weighing items like gold, jewelry, or medicinal herbs. It consists of a wooden beam with a sliding weight and a small pan suspended by strings. While rarely seen in modern retail, it remains a cultural symbol of precision in traditional trades.
Measure word
baa2把báExamples
Traditional Chinese medicine shops used to use the Chinese balance scale.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with modern digital scales, but it requires manual balancing skill and is strictly for traditional contexts. Do not use it to describe a standard bathroom or kitchen scale.
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.
