gwaa1 jan4瓜仁
Jyutpinggwaa1 jan4
Yalegwā yàhn
Definition
The kernel of a melon seed; the edible part inside a melon seed.
colloquialfoodfestival
How it's used
Refers specifically to the kernel inside the shell of a melon seed, often enjoyed as a snack during Lunar New Year. While people often just say 瓜子 to refer to the whole seed, using 瓜仁 highlights the edible part itself. It is frequently associated with the act of shelling seeds, which is a common social activity during festive gatherings.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
These melon seeds are very fragrant, do you want to eat some?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 瓜子, which refers to the entire seed including the shell. Use 瓜仁 when you are specifically talking about the kernel, but use 瓜子 when referring to the snack as a whole.
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.
