zing1 sai3精細精细
Jyutpingzing1 sai3
Yalejīng sai
Definition
Fine, meticulous, or exquisite; paying extreme attention to detail.
neutraldescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on the high level of detail or precision involved in a task or object. It is often used to praise craftsmanship or to describe a process that requires extreme care. While it can describe a person's working style, it sometimes carries a slightly critical tone if the speaker feels someone is being overly pedantic or wasting time on trivialities.
Examples
This model is made very meticulously.
Related words
Common phrases
fine workmanship
detailed division of labor
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 精明, which refers to someone being sharp or shrewd in business or social situations. Using 精細 to describe a person's intelligence will sound unnatural to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
