tin1 wong4天皇
Jyutpingtin1 wong4
Yaletīn wòhng
Definition
The Emperor of Japan, the official title of the Japanese monarch and head of state.
neutralpeopleplaces
How it's used
Refers exclusively to the Japanese monarch. It is never used to describe a Chinese emperor, for whom the term 皇帝 is used instead. In pop culture, the term is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a top-tier celebrity or a dominant figure in a specific industry.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
Does the Emperor of Japan live in Tokyo?
They went to visit the Emperor's Imperial Palace.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 皇帝, but they are not interchangeable. Using 天皇 to refer to historical Chinese rulers is factually and linguistically incorrect.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
