zi2 zaat3紙紮纸扎
Jyutpingzi2 zaat3
Yalejí jaat
Definition
Papier-mâché items, especially paper offerings burned for ancestors in ritual worship.
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How it's used
Refers specifically to the intricate paper crafts burned during traditional Chinese funeral rites or festivals to provide for the deceased in the afterlife. Modern versions often include replicas of contemporary items like smartphones, luxury handbags, or even villas, reflecting evolving cultural attitudes toward honoring ancestors.
Examples
The items in this paper offering shop are made very delicately.
Have you bought the paper offerings yet?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general paper crafts or origami, as the term carries a strong, specific association with death rituals and ancestor worship that can be sensitive in certain social contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
