zung1 gwok3 sei3 daai6 faat3 ming4中國四大發明中国四大发明
Jyutpingzung1 gwok3 sei3 daai6 faat3 ming4
Yalejūng gwok sei daaih faat mìhng
Definition
The four great inventions of ancient China: paper, the compass, gunpowder, and printing.
neutralother
How it's used
This term is a fixed historical concept taught in schools across the Chinese-speaking world. It refers specifically to the compass, gunpowder, papermaking, and printing. While it is a standard academic phrase, it is rarely used in casual conversation unless discussing history or cultural heritage.
Examples
Do you know what the four great inventions of ancient China are?
History class mentioned that the four great inventions of ancient China had a huge impact on the world.
Related words
Common phrases
The four great inventions of ancient China
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.
