ban1 long4檳榔槟榔
Jyutpingban1 long4
Yalebān lòhng
Definition
The areca palm, or its edible seed (betel nut).
- the areca palm tree
- the edible seed of the areca palm; betel nut
neutralfoodnature
How it's used
Chewing betel nut is a cultural practice in many parts of Southeast Asia, but it is rarely seen in modern Hong Kong daily life. When people do mention it, it is often in the context of travel or specific cultural traditions from other regions. Note that the term is strictly a noun referring to the plant or the fruit itself, rather than the act of chewing.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
He really likes chewing betel nut.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with other nuts, but it is specifically the fruit of the areca palm. It is important to remember that it is not a common snack in Hong Kong, so using it in a sentence about local food habits might sound strange.
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.
