coeng4

Jyutpingcoeng4
Yalechèuhng

Definition

A plant mentioned in the Book of Songs, traditionally identified as a carambola or star fruit.

writtenfoodnature

How it's used

The character 萇 is almost exclusively used in literary or classical contexts to refer to the star fruit. In modern everyday speech, Hong Kongers use 楊桃 instead. You will rarely encounter this character outside of formal writing or historical texts.

Measure word

go3go

Examples

This kind of star fruit tastes very sour.
How many star fruits did you buy to bring home?

Related words

Common phrases

an ancient name for the kiwi fruit or star fruit

Common mistake

Do not use 萇 in casual conversation as it will sound extremely unnatural or archaic to native speakers. Always prefer 楊桃 for the fruit.

Grammar color guide

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