sim4 gei1禪機禅机
Definition
A Buddhist Chan (Zen) concept referring to teachings, truths, or hints revealed through words, actions, or things.
How it's used
Originally a technical term from Zen Buddhism referring to the potential for enlightenment hidden within a master's cryptic actions or words, it has evolved into a common metaphor for anything mysterious, profound, or difficult to interpret. It is often used playfully or sarcastically to describe someone who speaks in riddles or acts in a way that others cannot understand. Using it in casual conversation implies that the subject matter is intentionally obscure or requires deep insight to decode.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general word for wisdom or intelligence, but it specifically implies a hidden, spiritual, or paradoxical layer of meaning that is not immediately obvious.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
