laam4 joek6 seoi2藍藥水蓝药水
Jyutpinglaam4 joek6 seoi2
Yalelàahm yeuhk séui
Definition
Gentian violet solution; a deep blue antiseptic liquid that is no longer commonly used.
colloquialhealth
How it's used
Refers to a specific antiseptic that was once a staple in every Hong Kong household medicine cabinet. It is now largely considered obsolete due to its tendency to leave stubborn purple stains on skin and clothing, as well as modern medical concerns regarding its safety. Mentioning it often evokes a sense of nostalgia for childhood injuries in the pre-modern medicine era.
Measure word
zeon1樽jēunExamples
When I was little and fell, my mom would always put gentian violet on me.
Does anyone still use gentian violet these days?
Related words
Common phrases
apply gentian violet
Common mistake
Learners might confuse it with modern antiseptic solutions like iodine, which is known as 碘酒. Do not assume it is still a standard recommendation for cuts or scrapes in current medical practice.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Classifier
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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.
