tung1 syu1通書通书
Jyutpingtung1 syu1
Yaletūng syū
Definition
Traditional Chinese almanac.
colloquialother
How it's used
The character 書 is avoided in this context because it is a homophone for 輸, which means to lose. To ensure good fortune, people use 勝, which means to win or succeed. This change is a classic example of the importance of lucky homophones in Cantonese culture.
Measure word
bun2本búnRelated words
Common mistake
Always use 通勝 instead of 通書 in daily life to avoid the negative connotation of losing. Using the original character is considered unlucky, especially when discussing important life events like weddings or moving house.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
