tin4 ci4填詞填词
Jyutpingtin4 ci4
Yaletìhn chìh
Definition
To write lyrics for a song, or to compose a classical Chinese Ci poem.
- to write lyrics for a song, matching the melody and rhythm
- to compose a classical Chinese lyric poem (Ci) to a set rhythmic pattern
colloquialdaily actionsother
How it's used
Writing lyrics in Cantonese is uniquely challenging because of the tonal nature of the language. A lyricist must ensure the tones of the words align with the melody of the song, a process known as 啱音. If the tones do not match the musical notes, the lyrics can sound unnatural or even change the meaning of the words to listeners.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse 填詞 with 寫歌. While 寫歌 can refer to the entire process of songwriting, including composing the melody, 填詞 specifically refers to the act of writing the lyrics to fit an existing or planned melody.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
