soeng6 bin1上邊上边
Jyutpingsoeng6 bin1
Yaleseuhng bīn
Definition
Mainland China, or the Beijing government.
colloquialplaces
How it's used
Refers specifically to mainland China from the perspective of someone in Hong Kong. It carries a slightly informal or detached tone compared to using the formal term 內地. It is often used in casual conversation to describe travel, business, or political developments originating from the central government.
Examples
He has been going to the mainland frequently for business lately.
When are you going back to the mainland to hang out again?
Related words
Common phrases
go to the mainland
policies from the central government
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of 'above' or 'on top of'. Context is essential to distinguish between a physical location and the political or geographical reference to the mainland.
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.
