deoi1 zik1堆積堆积
Jyutpingdeoi1 zik1
Yaledēui jīk
Definition
To pile up; to accumulate in large quantities.
neutraldaily actionsother
How it's used
While 堆積 is used in formal writing to describe the accumulation of abstract things like work or stress, it sounds slightly stiff in casual speech. In everyday life, Cantonese speakers often prefer using 擺埋一堆 or 堆埋 to describe physical objects gathering in one place. Using 堆積 for small, everyday items can make you sound like you are reading from a news report.
Examples
There is a pile of clutter accumulated on the desk.
Why are you piling up so much trash here?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use 堆積 for people gathering, but it is strictly for objects or abstract concepts. Use 聚集 or 圍埋 when talking about people.
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.
