caam2噆
Jyutpingcaam2
Yalecháam
Definition
To hold something in the mouth.
colloquialdaily actionsbody
How it's used
This verb specifically describes the action of keeping an object inside the mouth without swallowing or chewing it. It implies a static state where the mouth is occupied, often making speech muffled or difficult. It is distinct from eating or drinking because the focus is entirely on the act of retention.
Examples
He is holding a candy in his mouth and refuses to speak.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 食, but 噆 does not imply consumption. It is purely about the physical position of an object inside the oral cavity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
