gwai3 zi1桂枝
Jyutpinggwai3 zi1
Yalegwai jī
Definition
Cinnamon (Ramulus Cinnamomi)
neutralhealth
How it's used
Used primarily in the context of traditional Chinese medicine, this term refers specifically to the thin twigs of the cinnamon tree. It is a staple in many classic herbal formulas, particularly those aimed at warming the body or promoting circulation. Unlike the bark, which is commonly used as a spice in cooking, the twigs are almost exclusively handled by practitioners.
Measure word
loeng2両léungExamples
ji1 si1 waa6 le1 zai1 joek6 jiu3 gaa1 di1 gwai3 zi1
醫師話呢劑藥要加啲桂枝。
The doctor says this prescription needs some Cinnamomi Ramulus added.
nei5 zi1 m4 zi1 gwai3 zi1 jau5 me1 gung1 haau6 aa4
你知唔知桂枝有咩功效呀？
Do you know what the medicinal effects of Cinnamomi Ramulus are?
Related words
Common phrases
gwai3 zi1 tong1
桂枝湯
Cinnamomi Ramulus decoction
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 肉桂, which is the bark of the same tree used for culinary purposes. Using the wrong part of the plant in a medicinal decoction can lead to different therapeutic outcomes or safety concerns.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
