jim4 se4檐蛇
Jyutpingjim4 se4
Yaleyìhm sèh
Definition
Gecko; a general term for small lizards commonly found on walls or ceilings.
colloquialanimals
How it's used
People in Hong Kong often view these creatures as harmless but annoying house guests that leave droppings on walls or furniture. Unlike the formal term 壁虎 which is used in writing, 檐蛇 is the standard spoken term heard in daily life. It is common to see them near light sources at night where they hunt for small insects.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There is a gecko on the wall, are you scared?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 蛇, which refers to snakes. Even though the name contains the character for snake, it is a lizard and should be treated as such in conversation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
