tong4 long4螳螂
Jyutpingtong4 long4
Yaletòhng lòhng
Definition
Mantis; a predatory insect with a long body, triangular head, and raptorial forelegs resembling sickles.
neutralanimals
How it's used
Refers to the insect known for its predatory stance, which is iconic in Chinese martial arts culture. The term is frequently associated with the idiom 螳螂捕蟬，黃雀在後, describing someone who focuses on a small gain while ignoring a greater danger behind them.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There is a mantis moving in the bushes.
Related words
Common phrases
Mantis Fist (a style of Chinese martial arts)
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
