liu1 ngaa4撩牙
Jyutpingliu1 ngaa4
Yalelīu ngàh
Definition
To use a toothpick to clean food debris from between one's teeth.
colloquialdaily actionsbody
How it's used
Picking teeth in public is generally considered impolite in Hong Kong culture. It is common practice to cover one's mouth with a hand while doing so to maintain decorum. The term specifically refers to the action of using a toothpick or similar object to dislodge food.
Examples
Remember to use a toothpick after your meal.
Why are you picking your teeth there? It is so rude.
Related words
Common phrases
to use a toothpick
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with just brushing teeth, which is 刷牙. Using 撩牙 implies the specific act of digging out debris from gaps, whereas 刷牙 is the general hygiene routine.
Grammar color guide
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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.
