syu1 gun2書館书馆
Jyutpingsyu1 gun2
Yalesyū gún
Definition
A private school in former times, or a teahouse featuring storytelling performances.
- historicala private school
- historicala teahouse featuring storytelling performances
datedplaces
How it's used
Refers specifically to traditional venues where storytellers performed, often involving tea service. It is a historical term that is rarely used to describe modern establishments. Modern libraries are referred to as 圖書館, so avoid confusing the two.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
People in the past liked to go to storytelling teahouses to listen to stories.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 圖書館, which is the standard term for a public library. Using 書館 to refer to a modern library will cause confusion as it sounds archaic or like a specific type of performance venue.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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Classifier
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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.
