jik1膉
Jyutpingjik1
Yaleyīk
Definition
Rancid; having the smell or taste of spoiled oils and greasy food.
colloquialfooddescriptions
How it's used
This word specifically describes the distinct, unpleasant odor of oxidized fats or oils. It is frequently applied to old cooking oil, stale nuts, or even clothes that have absorbed greasy cooking fumes over time. While it implies decay, it is not used for general rotting or putrefaction, which would be described as 臭.
Examples
This bottle of oil has been sitting for too long, it has a rancid smell.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 臭, which is a general term for any bad smell. 膉 is highly specific to the chemical breakdown of lipids and is often paired with 味 to emphasize the sensory experience.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
