si1 cung4師從师从
Jyutpingsi1 cung4
Yalesī chùhng
Definition
To study under a master; to be somebody's apprentice or disciple.
writtenpeopleschool
How it's used
This term is formal and carries a sense of respect, often used in contexts involving traditional arts, martial arts, or academic mentorship. It implies a structured relationship where the student formally acknowledges the teacher as their master. Unlike casual learning, it suggests a long-term commitment to mastering a craft or discipline.
Examples
When he was young, he studied painting under a famous master.
Are you planning to become an apprentice to this master to learn kung fu?
Related words
Common phrases
to study under a famous master
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual daily situations like learning a hobby from a friend, as it sounds overly dramatic or archaic. It is specifically reserved for formal master-disciple relationships.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
