zin2 ci3展翅
Jyutpingzin2 ci3
Yalejín chi
Definition
To spread or stretch wings in preparation for flight.
neutralanimalsdescriptions
How it's used
Primarily used in a metaphorical sense to describe someone embarking on a new journey or pursuing their ambitions with confidence. While it literally refers to birds, it is frequently applied to people starting a career or moving away from home. It carries an optimistic and encouraging tone, often used in speeches or well wishes.
Examples
The bird is stretching its wings, ready to fly away.
Related words
Common phrases
to spread wings and soar high
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe the simple physical act of a bird flapping its wings, as it specifically emphasizes the extension of wings for the purpose of taking flight or starting a journey.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
