hung4 joek6 seoi2紅藥水红药水
Jyutpinghung4 joek6 seoi2
Yalehùhng yeuhk séui
Definition
Mercurochrome, a red fluorescent antiseptic liquid formerly used for minor wounds.
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How it's used
Mercurochrome is widely considered an obsolete remedy in Hong Kong due to its mercury content and the belief that it delays skin regeneration. It serves as a nostalgic marker of childhood injuries for older generations, often associated with the stinging sensation of application. Modern first aid kits have almost entirely replaced it with iodine or clear antiseptic solutions.
Measure word
zi1支jīExamples
When I fell down as a kid, my mom would always put mercurochrome on me.
Can you still find mercurochrome? It is rarely seen nowadays.
Related words
Common phrases
to apply mercurochrome
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 碘酒, which is iodine. While both are used for disinfection, they are chemically distinct and have different appearances and medical applications.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
