aa3 si6 pat1 ling4阿士匹靈阿士匹灵
Jyutpingaa3 si6 pat1 ling4
Yalea sih pāt lìhng
Definition
Aspirin.
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How it's used
This term is a direct phonetic loanword from English and is used almost exclusively in medical or pharmacy contexts. While many younger people might simply use the English word directly in conversation, this transliteration remains the standard way to refer to the medication in Cantonese. It is often treated as a mass noun, so it is usually paired with a classifier like 粒 to indicate a single pill.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
You have a headache, take an aspirin.
Is there any aspirin left at home?
Related words
Common phrases
take aspirin
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with other common painkillers like 必理痛, which is a specific brand name for paracetamol that is much more commonly used in Hong Kong for general aches and pains.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
