hung4 wong4雄黃雄黄
Jyutpinghung4 wong4
Yalehùhng wòhng
Definition
Realgar, pararealgar, or arsenic sulfide; a toxic yellow mineral used in traditional Chinese medicine.
neutralfestivalother
How it's used
Associated primarily with the Dragon Boat Festival, this mineral is historically used to ward off evil spirits and venomous creatures. While it appears in traditional medicine and folklore, modern health awareness emphasizes its toxicity due to its arsenic content. It is rarely encountered outside of cultural contexts or specific chemical discussions.
Examples
Drinking realgar wine on the Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional custom.
Do you know that realgar is actually poisonous?
Related words
Common phrases
realgar wine
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with common yellow pigments or spices, as it is toxic and should never be ingested casually or used in food preparation without professional medical guidance.
Grammar color guide
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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.
