hoi1 wai6 hau2開胃口开胃口
Jyutpinghoi1 wai6 hau2
Yalehōi waih háu
Definition
To stimulate the appetite; to increase one's desire to eat.
colloquialfoodhealth
How it's used
This expression is frequently used to describe food that makes one feel hungry or eager to eat, especially when one has lost their appetite due to heat or illness. It functions as a verb phrase, often appearing with the particle 囉 or 啦 to suggest a recommendation for a meal. It is distinct from simply being hungry, as it focuses on the sensory appeal of the food itself.
Examples
It is so hot, let's eat something sour to stimulate the appetite.
Related words
Common phrases
very appetizing
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 開胃, which is an adjective meaning appetizing. While they are related, 開胃口 is specifically used as a verb phrase to describe the act of stimulating one's appetite, whereas 開胃 describes the quality of the food.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
