tou4 jin4陶然
Jyutpingtou4 jin4
Yaletòuh yìhn
Definition
Happy, carefree, and content, often associated with the pleasant state of being tipsy.
writtenemotiondescriptions
How it's used
陶然 is a literary term that describes a state of being relaxed, joyful, and free from worldly worries. It is rarely used in casual, everyday speech and is mostly encountered in written prose, formal descriptions, or when someone wants to sound particularly poetic or elegant. It often appears in the four character idiom 陶然自得 to emphasize a sense of self-contentment.
Examples
They are chatting happily and carefree on the grass.
Life after retirement is so happy and carefree, it is truly enviable.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common adjective like 開心, but it carries a much more sophisticated and literary tone. Using it in a very casual context, such as describing a quick lunch with friends, will sound unnatural and overly dramatic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
