ci1 caan1黐餐
Jyutpingci1 caan1
Yalechī chāan
Definition
To get a free meal at a friend's or relative's place; to sponge a meal.
colloquialfoodpeople
How it's used
This term carries a slightly cheeky or critical tone, implying that the person is taking advantage of someone else's hospitality to save money. It is rarely used to describe a formal invitation, but rather a situation where someone shows up uninvited or too frequently. Using it about yourself can sound self-deprecating, while using it about others often sounds like a playful jab or a mild complaint.
Examples
He always goes to his friends' places for free meals, it is quite embarrassing.
Related words
Common phrases
to go to someone's house for a free meal
always sponging off others for meals
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe being invited to a dinner party or a formal meal, as it specifically implies a lack of contribution or an imposition on the host. It is not a neutral way to say you are eating at someone's house.
Grammar color guide
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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.
