zong6 jyun4狀元状元
Jyutpingzong6 jyun4
Yalejohng yùhn
Definition
The top scorer in an exam; historically the number-one scholar in the imperial civil service examinations.
- the top scorer in modern public examinations like the HKDSE
- historicalthe candidate who ranked first in the highest imperial examination
colloquialschoolpeople
How it's used
Originally referring to the top candidate in the imperial civil service examination, the term is now widely used in local media to describe students who achieve the highest possible grades in the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education. It carries a strong connotation of academic prestige and excellence. When used in this modern context, it is almost exclusively reserved for those who achieve the maximum score across all subjects.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
He is the top scorer in this year's public exam, his results are amazing.
Do you know who the top scorer is this year?
Related words
Common phrases
top scorer in the university entrance exam
top scorer in the HKDSE
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general high achievers or top students in a single class, as it specifically denotes the absolute top rank in a major public examination.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
