sik6 mat6 lin2食物鏈食物链
Jyutpingsik6 mat6 lin2
Yalesihk maht lín
Definition
Food chain; the feeding relationship between species.
neutralnaturepeople
How it's used
Beyond the biological context, this term is frequently used as a metaphor for social or professional hierarchies. It describes power dynamics where individuals or groups exert influence over others, similar to how predators interact with prey. Using it to describe office politics or social status is a very common way to sound like a native speaker.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
It turns out he is at the very bottom of the company's food chain.
Do you know how the food chain works?
Related words
Common phrases
at the top of the food chain
bottom of the food chain
Common mistake
Do not confuse the biological term with the casual way people talk about eating habits, as it strictly refers to hierarchical relationships rather than a list of what someone eats.
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.
