tong4 mei5*1塘𧋦
Jyutpingtong4 mei5*1
Yaletòhng mēi5*
Definition
Dragonfly
datedanimalsnature
How it's used
Refers specifically to the insect commonly known as 蜻蜓 in modern standard Chinese. While 塘𧋦 is a traditional Cantonese term, it is increasingly viewed as old fashioned or regional, with many younger speakers preferring the standard 蜻蜓. It carries a slightly more rustic or nostalgic tone, often associated with childhood memories of playing in the countryside.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There are many dragonflies flying around the pond.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners should be aware that 塘𧋦 is rarely used in urban settings or formal writing, where 蜻蜓 is the standard choice. Using it might make you sound like you are speaking in a dialectal or dated manner.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
