syun3 meng6算命
Jyutpingsyun3 meng6
Yalesyun mehng
Definition
To tell fortunes; to predict a person's fate using methods like birth charts, palmistry, or physiognomy.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Refers specifically to traditional methods of divination like reading palms or birth charts rather than casual horoscope reading. It carries a cultural weight associated with seeking guidance during times of uncertainty or major life transitions. People often seek out a 師傅 for this purpose, emphasizing the professional or spiritual authority of the practitioner.
Examples
Do you believe in people telling your fortune?
Related words
Common phrases
fortune teller
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 睇相, which specifically refers to physiognomy or palmistry. While 算命 is a broader term for fortune telling, 睇相 is limited to looking at physical features.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
