haam4 seoi2 jyu2鹹水魚咸水鱼
Jyutpinghaam4 seoi2 jyu2
Yalehàahm séui yú
Definition
Saltwater fish or marine fish, as opposed to freshwater fish.
colloquialfood
How it's used
Distinguishing between saltwater and freshwater fish is a fundamental aspect of buying seafood in Hong Kong wet markets. While many people simply refer to them as 海魚 or 河魚 depending on their origin, using 鹹水魚 is the precise way to contrast them with freshwater varieties. It is common to see these labels clearly marked on price tags at fish stalls to help customers choose the right texture and flavor profile for their cooking.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
The saltwater fish at the market today are very fresh.
Do you prefer eating saltwater fish or freshwater fish?
Related words
Common phrases
steamed saltwater fish
fresh saltwater fish
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 鹹魚, which specifically refers to salted, preserved fish. Using 鹹水魚 when you mean preserved fish will cause confusion as it implies the fish is fresh and living in the ocean.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
