tin1 fong1 je6 taam4天方夜譚天方夜谭
Jyutpingtin1 fong1 je6 taam4
Yaletīn fōng yeh tàahm
Definition
Nonsense; an absurd, baseless, or highly improbable story that is impossible to believe.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Originating from the title of the classic collection of Middle Eastern folk tales, this term is used metaphorically in Cantonese to describe something so far-fetched or unbelievable that it sounds like a fairy tale. It carries a stronger sense of skepticism than simply saying something is fake, as it implies the speaker finds the claim absurd or impossible to take seriously.
Examples
What you are saying is simply nonsense.
This plan sounds like complete nonsense.
Related words
Common phrases
simply nonsense
sounds like nonsense
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a simple lie or a mistake. It is specifically reserved for claims that are wildly unrealistic, fantastical, or completely detached from reality.
Grammar color guide
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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.
