hoeng1 gaan2香梘香枧
Jyutpinghoeng1 gaan2
Yalehēung gáan
Definition
A bar of soap.
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How it's used
While 香梘 is a perfectly acceptable term for soap, most people in daily life simply use 番梘. 香梘 carries a slightly more refined or commercial nuance, often implying the soap is scented or intended for personal hygiene rather than general cleaning. You will frequently see it used in advertisements or on product packaging.
Measure word
gau6舊gauhExamples
This bar of soap smells very nice.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 肥皂, which is the standard term in Mandarin. While locals will understand 肥皂, it sounds distinctly non-Cantonese and is rarely used in natural speech.
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.
