sing2 si1醒獅醒狮
Jyutpingsing2 si1
Yalesíng sī
Definition
The traditional southern Chinese lion used in lion dance performances.
colloquialfestivalpeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to the Southern style of lion dance, which is characterized by more expressive, acrobatic movements compared to the Northern style. It is deeply tied to festive celebrations and business openings, where the performance is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. The term highlights the ritual of 'dotting the eyes' to bring the lion to life.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
During the New Year, there are people performing the lion dance at the mall entrance.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 舞龍, which involves a long dragon held by multiple people rather than a single lion head operated by two performers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
