gei3 geoi1 haai5寄居蟹
Jyutpinggei3 geoi1 haai5
Yalegei gēui háaih
Definition
Hermit crab; an omnivorous crustacean that lives near water and uses scavenged shells for protection.
neutralanimalsnature
How it's used
Unlike many other crustaceans, these creatures rely entirely on discarded shells from other animals to protect their soft abdomens. They are frequently observed in coastal areas and are popular as educational pets for children in Hong Kong. The name literally describes their habit of living as a guest in someone else's house.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
I saw a hermit crab on the beach.
Do you know why hermit crabs need to change their shells?
Related words
Common phrases
hermit crab changing shells
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.
