ziu1 can1招親招亲
Jyutpingziu1 can1
Yalejīu chān
Definition
To find or recruit a spouse publicly.
colloquialpeoplefamily
How it's used
Historically associated with martial arts competitions where the winner earns the hand of a daughter, this term now carries a humorous or dramatic flair. It is rarely used for modern dating, appearing mostly in period dramas or when someone is jokingly describing a desperate or overly formal search for a partner. Using it in a serious context will sound archaic or theatrical.
Examples
Does he want to hold a public search for a spouse?
Wealthy families in ancient times often held public spouse-seeking events.
Related words
Common phrases
martial arts competition to win a spouse
publicly seeking a spouse
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with standard dating or marriage proposals, as it specifically implies a public, competitive, or formal selection process rather than a private romantic relationship.
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.
