baa2 zaan2把盞把盏
Jyutpingbaa2 zaan2
Yalebá jáan
Definition
To hold a wine cup or drink alcohol.
writtendrinkdaily actions
How it's used
Evokes a sense of literary elegance or a slightly formal, poetic atmosphere compared to simply saying 飲酒. It is frequently used in contexts involving social gatherings, reunions, or reflective moments where the act of holding a cup is central to the mood. You will often encounter it in written media or when someone wants to add a touch of sophistication to their speech.
Examples
Let's drink and chat happily tonight, have a few more glasses.
He is drinking alone there, he looks quite sorrowful.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, everyday settings like a quick beer at a convenience store, as it sounds overly dramatic and out of place. It is reserved for more deliberate, atmospheric drinking occasions.
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.



