lap1 san4粒臣
Jyutpinglap1 san4
Yalelāp sành
Definition
Unit of 10 Hong Kong cents (110th of a Hong Kong dollar) [colloquial]
datedmoney
How it's used
Originating from the English word "ten cents," this term reflects the historical influence of colonial currency on local Cantonese slang. It is now largely archaic and primarily used by older generations or in historical contexts to describe small change. Modern speakers almost exclusively use 毫子 to refer to a ten-cent coin.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
ni1 go3 min6 baau1 jiu3 loeng5 nap1 san4
呢個麵包要兩粒臣。
This bread costs twenty cents.
nei5 zung6 jau5 mou5 nap1 san2 zaau2 aa4
你仲有冇粒臣找呀？
Do you still have any ten-cent coins for change?
Related words
Common phrases
gei2 nap1 san2
幾粒臣
a few ten-cent coins
Common mistake
Learners should avoid using this in modern commercial settings as it will not be understood by younger shopkeepers. It is strictly a historical term and carries a nostalgic or dated tone.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
