bou2 cyun4 kei4保存期
Jyutpingbou2 cyun4 kei4
Yalebóu chyùhn kèih
Definition
Shelf life; the length of time a product can be stored without becoming unfit for use.
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How it's used
Commonly found on food labels and packaging to indicate the period during which a product remains safe or of optimal quality. While it refers to the technical shelf life, people often use it interchangeably with the concept of an expiry date. It is a formal term that you will see printed on goods rather than something you would frequently use in casual conversation.
Examples
Has this carton of milk passed its shelf life yet?
Remember to check the shelf life clearly when buying food.
Related words
Common phrases
extend shelf life
within the shelf life
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 有效日期, which specifically refers to the expiry date. While they are related, 保存期 focuses on the duration of storage, whereas 有效日期 indicates the final day the product is considered safe to consume.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.



