ji1 jyu2衣魚衣鱼
Jyutpingji1 jyu2
Yaleyī yú
Definition
Silverfish; a small, wingless insect that feeds on books and clothing in damp, dark areas.
colloquialanimalshome
How it's used
Despite the name containing the character for fish, this is strictly an insect that thrives in damp, dark environments. It is commonly found in older homes or libraries where paper and fabric are stored. People often refer to them as 書蟲 because of their tendency to damage books.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There are a few silverfish in the bookcase, it's so gross.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not mistake this for an aquatic creature just because of the name. It is a household pest, not something you would find in a fish tank.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
