jaa6 sei3 mei2廿四味
Jyutpingjaa6 sei3 mei2
Yaleyah sei méi
Definition
A type of Cantonese herbal tea with cooling and detoxifying properties.
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How it's used
Despite the name, this herbal tea is rarely made from exactly twenty-four ingredients, but rather a blend of various bitter herbs intended to clear internal heat. It is widely considered the most potent and bitter option among traditional herbal drinks in Hong Kong. Locals often drink it as a medicinal remedy rather than for enjoyment, frequently pairing it with a preserved plum or a piece of rock sugar to mask the intense bitterness.
Measure word
bui1杯būiExamples
Your throat hurts, why not buy a cup of 24-flavor tea to drink?
The 24-flavor tea at this herbal tea shop is really bitter.
Related words
Common phrases
drink 24-flavor tea
very bitter 24-flavor tea
Common mistake
Do not assume the name implies a literal count of ingredients, as it is a traditional label for a generic category of bitter cooling tea. Also, be aware that it is extremely bitter and not intended for casual sipping like milk tea.
Grammar color guide
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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.
