syun1 ngai4狻猊
Jyutpingsyun1 ngai4
Yalesyūn ngàih
Definition
Suanni, a legendary lion-like beast of ancient Chinese mythology and one of the nine sons of the dragon.
neutralother
How it's used
This term is almost exclusively encountered in the context of traditional Chinese art, architecture, or mythology. It is frequently seen as a decorative motif on incense burners or temple roofs, where it is believed to enjoy smoke and fire. You will rarely hear it in casual conversation unless discussing folklore or antique items.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There is a carved mythical lion on this incense burner.
Related words
Common phrases
mythical lion incense burner
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
