tang4謄誊
Jyutpingtang4
Yaletàhng
Definition
To copy out by hand; to make a clean, word-for-word handwritten copy of a draft.
writtenworkschool
How it's used
Used primarily in formal or administrative contexts, this term implies the act of creating a clean, final version from a messy draft. It is almost exclusively paired with the character 寫 or the word 稿, emphasizing the physical effort of rewriting text by hand or retyping it to ensure clarity. You will rarely hear it in casual conversation unless discussing office tasks or school assignments.
Examples
Could you help me transcribe this report?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 抄, which is a general term for copying or cheating. 謄 specifically carries the nuance of creating a neat, official copy from a rough draft, whereas 抄 can simply mean duplicating someone else's work.
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.
