gam1 cin4 gwai1金錢龜金钱龟
Jyutpinggam1 cin4 gwai1
Yalegām chìhn gwāi
Definition
The Chinese three-striped box turtle (Cuora trifasciata).
colloquialanimalsother
How it's used
This species is highly prized in traditional Chinese medicine and culture, often associated with good fortune and longevity. Because of its extreme rarity and protected status, it is rarely seen in casual settings and carries a connotation of significant wealth or luxury. Mentioning it often implies a discussion about high-value exotic pets or traditional medicinal ingredients.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
He keeps a Chinese three-striped box turtle at home; it is very precious.
Do you know where they sell Chinese three-striped box turtles?
Related words
Common phrases
to keep a Chinese three-striped box turtle
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with common pet turtles like 巴西龜, but the two are vastly different in terms of legal protection and market value. Never assume someone is talking about a standard pet turtle when they use this specific term.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
