hau2 haai4 lei6 sou3口嚡脷素
Jyutpinghau2 haai4 lei6 sou3
Yaleháu hàaih leih sou
Definition
To have a dry or rough mouth with a diminished sense of taste, causing a poor appetite.
colloquialhealthfood
How it's used
This expression describes a specific sensation where the mouth feels dry, rough, or tasteless, making food unappealing. It is often used to explain a lack of appetite caused by illness, fatigue, or general malaise. While it literally references the mouth and tongue, it functions as a common way to decline food politely without needing to specify a medical condition.
Examples
I have been sick lately, and I have no appetite.
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being full or picky about food. It specifically implies a physical or sensory discomfort that makes eating unpleasant.
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.
