can1 cik1 gan1親戚巾亲戚巾
Jyutpingcan1 cik1 gan1
Yalechān chīk gān
Definition
Sanitary pads; menstrual pads.
colloquialhealthbody
How it's used
This is a playful, euphemistic way to refer to sanitary pads, literally translating to 'relative towel'. It stems from the common Cantonese slang referring to menstruation as 'having a relative visit' or 'the relative is here'. Using this term makes a potentially awkward topic sound lighthearted and less clinical.
Measure word
baau1包bāuExamples
Do you have any sanitary pads in your bag?
I went to the convenience store and bought a pack of sanitary pads.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this in formal or professional settings, as it is strictly colloquial and meant for casual conversation among friends or family. In a shop or pharmacy, use the more standard term 衛生巾 to avoid confusion.
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.
