gwai3 faa1 sim4桂花蟬桂花蝉
Jyutpinggwai3 faa1 sim4
Yalegwai fā sìhm
Definition
Giant water bug; a large edible freshwater insect, historically associated with the scent of osmanthus.
colloquialfoodanimals
How it's used
Despite the name implying a connection to osmanthus flowers, this term actually refers to the giant water bug, a type of edible insect often deep-fried as a snack. It is considered a traditional delicacy in parts of Southern China and Southeast Asia, rather than a common household food in Hong Kong. The name is a euphemism that makes the insect sound more poetic and appetizing.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
Have you ever eaten water bugs?
Related words
Common phrases
deep-fried water bug
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with actual cicadas or flowers, as the name is highly misleading to those unfamiliar with regional entomophagy. It is strictly a culinary term for a specific edible water bug.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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Classifier
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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.
