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Definition
The flower Telosma cordata, or euphemistically, night soil collected at night.
- Telosma cordata, a vine with fragrant flowers used as a vegetable
- slangnight soil; human waste collected and transported at night
How it's used
The term functions as a double entendre, referring both to the fragrant flower and the historical practice of collecting night soil. In modern context, using it to refer to waste is considered quite crude and carries a strong historical weight, as it evokes the era before modern sewage systems. When referring to the plant, it is often used in culinary contexts, specifically for soups or stir-fries.
Measure word
fo2棵fóExamples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Be careful not to use this term in polite company to refer to waste, as it is a euphemism that can sound quite vulgar or derogatory depending on the tone. If you are talking about the flower, ensure the context is clear so listeners do not mistake your meaning for the historical waste collection practice.
Grammar color guide
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.
