zuk1 zi1 ci4竹枝詞竹枝词
Jyutpingzuk1 zi1 ci4
Yalejūk jī chìh
Definition
Zhuzhici; seven-character poems or songs mainly about local places and rural villages in Hong Kong.
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How it's used
Refers specifically to a traditional folk genre that captures local history and geography through a seven-character structure. While historically sung by Hakka villagers in the New Territories during leisure or travel, it has transitioned into a cultural performance art today. It serves as an important oral record of rural life that predates modern urban development.
Measure word
sau2首sáuExamples
This Zhuzhici poem talks about the scenery of Tai Po in the past.
Related words
Common phrases
to chant Zhuzhici poems
to perform Zhuzhici poems
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with generic poetry or modern song lyrics, as it strictly follows the seven-character rhythmic structure and carries a distinct regional cultural heritage. It is not a term used for contemporary Cantopop or casual rhyming.
Grammar color guide
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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.
