zang1 jan4僧人
Jyutpingzang1 jan4
Yalejāng yàhn
Definition
Monk, especially a Buddhist monk.
neutralpeople
How it's used
Refers specifically to a Buddhist practitioner who has taken formal vows. While it is a standard term, people often use 和尚 in casual conversation to refer to monks in general. Using 僧人 sounds slightly more formal or respectful, often appearing in news reports or when discussing religious figures in a serious context.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
That monk is practicing asceticism on the mountain.
Related words
Common phrases
ordained monk
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 尼姑, which specifically refers to a Buddhist nun. Using 僧人 for a female practitioner is incorrect.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
