tin1 tong4 niu5天堂鳥天堂鸟
Jyutpingtin1 tong4 niu5
Yaletīn tòhng níuh
Definition
Bird of paradise; the bird or the exotic flowering plant.
colloquialnature
How it's used
Refers specifically to the ornamental plant with distinct orange and blue flowers, rather than the actual bird species found in nature. It is a very common choice for floral arrangements in Hong Kong homes and offices because of its striking, architectural appearance. The name is borrowed directly from the English common name, reflecting the city's history of adopting Western botanical terminology.
Measure word
zi1支jīExamples
There are a few birds of paradise flowers in the vase.
Do you like birds of paradise?
Related words
Common phrases
a bouquet of birds of paradise
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
