laap6 zeoi1 zi1 dei6立錐之地立锥之地
Jyutpinglaap6 zeoi1 zi1 dei6
Yalelaahp jēui jī deih
Definition
An extremely small space; a tiny foothold or shelter to betake oneself.
writtenplacesmoney
How it's used
This idiom is used to describe an extremely cramped living space or a state of absolute poverty where one lacks even the smallest amount of property. While it carries a formal or literary tone, it is frequently used in hyperbolic ways to complain about the high cost of living or the lack of space in Hong Kong apartments. It functions as a noun phrase that highlights the desperation of having nowhere to stand or settle.
Examples
He is so poor that he doesn't even have a tiny place to live.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a small but comfortable room, as it implies a sense of destitution or extreme lack of space. It is not a standard way to describe a small apartment in a neutral context.
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.
