gaa1 coi3加菜
Jyutpinggaa1 coi3
Yalegā choi
Definition
To add more dishes to a meal, or specifically in Cantonese, to add more vegetables.
- to add more dishes to a meal to make it richer
- to add more vegetables to a dish or meal
colloquialfooddaily actions
How it's used
While the literal meaning suggests adding vegetables, in daily life it refers to adding any extra dish to a meal, usually to celebrate an occasion or to use up extra ingredients. It carries a positive connotation of abundance or a special treat compared to a standard daily meal. It is frequently used when someone brings home extra food unexpectedly.
Related words
Common phrases
to add dishes to celebrate
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin usage which can sometimes imply specifically adding vegetables to a dish. In Cantonese, it is almost exclusively used to describe adding an entire extra dish to the table.
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.
