剪刀
zin2 dou1
The Cantonese word for scissors is 剪刀 (zin2 dou1).
剪刀 refers to the tool used for cutting.
Meaning: tool used for cutting (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
When counting or specifying scissors, use the classifier 把 (baa2). For example, 把剪刀 means a pair of scissors.
How do you pronounce it?
zin2 dou1
Did you know?
- In Cantonese culture, giving 剪刀 as a gift is often avoided because the action of cutting symbolizes the severing of a relationship or friendship.
- The word 刀 in 剪刀 means 'knife', implying that scissors are viewed linguistically as a type of specialized knife.
- The classifier 把 used for 剪刀 is also used for any tool with a handle, such as 'knives' or 'umbrellas'.
Examples in context
- 呢把剪刀好利。ni1 baa2 zin2 dou1 hou2 lei6.This pair of scissors is very sharp.
- 我需要一把剪刀。ngo5 seoi1 jiu3 jat1 baa2 zin2 dou1.I need a pair of scissors.
Example conversation
A girl is looking for a tool to cut paper for an art project.
- 志強 Chi Keung曉彤，你有冇剪刀？hiu2 tung4, nei5 jau5 mou5 zin2 dou1?Hiu Tung, do you have scissors?
- 曉彤 Hiu Tung喺書包入面有一把。hai2 syu1 baau1 jap6 min6 jau5 jat1 baa2.There is a pair inside the schoolbag.
- 志強 Chi Keung呢把剪刀好似唔係幾好用。ni1 baa2 zin2 dou1 hou2 ci5 m4 hai6 gei2 hou2 jung6.These scissors don't seem very easy to use.
- 曉彤 Hiu Tung係呀，我再去搵吓。hai6 aa3, ngo5 zoi3 heoi3 wan2 haa5.Yeah, I'll go look for them again.
