tong4 man2唐文
Jyutpingtong4 man2
Yaletòhng mán
Definition
The Chinese language, especially the written form.
colloquialcommunication
How it's used
Refers specifically to the Chinese language in a traditional or cultural context, often contrasting with Western languages. While technically correct, it is less common in modern daily life than 中文, which is the standard term used in schools and official settings. Using this term can sometimes sound slightly old fashioned or emphasize the heritage aspect of the language.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 唐人, which refers to Chinese people. Learners often mistakenly use this term as a direct synonym for 中文 in every situation, but it lacks the neutrality of the standard term.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
