gaai1痎
Jyutpinggaai1
Yalegāai
Definition
Tertian malaria.
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How it's used
This term is highly specialized and belongs to the register of traditional Chinese medicine or archaic medical literature. It is almost never used in modern spoken Cantonese, where people would simply use the loanword 瘧疾 or describe the symptoms of fever and chills. Using it in casual conversation will likely confuse native speakers who are unfamiliar with classical medical terminology.
Examples
He has been sick for a long time, it seems like he has tertian malaria.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with common words for fever or illness, as it specifically refers to a historical classification of malaria. It is not a general term for being sick.
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.
