gei1 wai4基圍基围
Jyutpinggei1 wai4
Yalegēi wàih
Definition
Gei wai; a traditional shrimp or fish pond enclosed by mud dykes, filled and stocked naturally by the tide.
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How it's used
Gei Wai refers specifically to the traditional brackish water ponds found in the northwestern part of the New Territories, particularly in Mai Po. It represents a unique, low-impact aquaculture method that relies on tidal cycles to refresh water and bring in young fish and shrimp. The term is deeply tied to the local history and ecological heritage of Hong Kong.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
This place used to be a shrimp pond, but now it has turned into a wetland park.
Do you know how Gei Wai shrimp are raised?
Related words
Common phrases
Gei Wai shrimp
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with a standard fish pond, but a Gei Wai is distinct because it is managed through tidal flow rather than mechanical pumps or constant feeding. It is not a generic term for any pond.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adverb
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Particle
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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.
