bing1 seoi2冰水
Jyutpingbing1 seoi2
Yalebīng séui
Definition
Ice water; drinking water cooled with ice.
colloquialdrink
How it's used
Ordering ice water is a standard request in Hong Kong restaurants, often served as a default in casual eateries. It is distinct from just cold water, which might be served at room temperature or chilled without ice cubes. When asking for it, people often use the polite particle 呀 to soften the request.
Measure word
bui1杯būiExamples
Does the restaurant provide ice water?
The weather is so hot, drinking a glass of ice water is the best.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 冰水 with 凍水, which is a broader term for any cold drink or chilled water. If you specifically want ice cubes in your water, using 冰水 ensures clarity.
Grammar color guide
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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.
