zaan2盞盏
Jyutpingzaan2
Yalejáan
Definition
Classifier for lamps, lights, and bird's nests.
neutralhomefood
How it's used
Primarily serves as the specific classifier for lamps and light fixtures, though it is also the standard measure word for bird's nests. While it feels slightly more formal or literary than the generic classifier 個, it remains the correct and expected term for these specific items in everyday speech. Using it correctly demonstrates a grasp of traditional measure word usage that is often overlooked by beginners.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it for other light sources like candles or flashlights, which typically take 支 or 個. It is strictly reserved for lamps and bird's nests, so do not overgeneralize it to all light-related objects.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
