zong3 nin4壯年壮年
Jyutpingzong3 nin4
Yalejong nìhn
Definition
The prime of one's life, when a person is at their strongest and healthiest.
neutralpeoplehealth
How it's used
This term refers specifically to the peak period of physical strength and vitality in adulthood, typically spanning from the late twenties to the early fifties. It carries a positive connotation of being at the height of one's career or personal capability. Unlike general terms for adulthood, it emphasizes the robustness and health of the individual during these years.
Examples
He is in his prime, so he has a lot of energy for work.
If you don't take care of yourself in your prime, you will suffer when you get old.
Related words
Common phrases
in the prime of life
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the term 中年, which simply refers to middle age. While they overlap in time, 壯年 focuses on the strength and vigor of the person, whereas 中年 is a neutral chronological marker.
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.
