wo4 soeng2和尚
Jyutpingwo4 soeng2
Yalewòh séung
Definition
Buddhist monk
neutralpeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to male practitioners of Buddhism who have taken monastic vows. While it is the standard term, it can sometimes carry a slightly playful or dismissive tone depending on context, especially when used in idioms or jokes about monks living in isolation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
keoi5 sai3 go3 go2 zan6 soeng2 zou6 wo4 soeng2
佢細個嗰陣想做和尚。
He wanted to be a Buddhist monk when he was young.
go2 go3 wo4 soeng2 hai2 miu6 jap6 min6 daa2 zo6
嗰個和尚喺廟入面打坐。
That monk is meditating inside the temple.
Related words
Common phrases
wo4 soeng2 miu6
和尚廟
monastery
zou6 wo4 soeng2
做和尚
to become a monk
Common mistake
Avoid using this term for monks of other religions, as it is strictly associated with Buddhism. For Christian clergy, use terms like 神父 or 牧師 instead.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
