sing3 jan4聖人圣人
Jyutpingsing3 jan4
Yalesing yàhn
Definition
A saint, sage, or remarkably wise and moral person; can also refer ironically to someone with a holier-than-thou attitude.
- a saint; a holy person recognized in religion
- a sage; a person of perfect moral character and wisdom
- figurativea person who believes they are better than others; a holier-than-thou person
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Beyond the religious context, this term is frequently used sarcastically to describe someone who acts morally superior or self-righteous. When used in this way, it often implies that the person is being hypocritical or judgmental toward others. It is a common way to call out someone who pretends to be perfect while hiding their own flaws.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He always acts like a saint, but he actually does a lot of shady things behind people's backs.
Do you think you're a saint? Stop being so hypocritical.
Related words
Common phrases
to act like a saint
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a genuine compliment, as it is very often used as a biting insult to mock someone's perceived holier-than-thou attitude.
Grammar color guide
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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.
