m4 hoi1 wai6唔開胃唔开胃
Jyutpingm4 hoi1 wai6
Yalem̀h hōi waih
Definition
Unappetizing or unappealing; causing one to lose their appetite.
colloquialfoodhealth
How it's used
Beyond physical hunger, this phrase is frequently used to describe something that is visually unappealing or a situation that leaves a bad taste in one's mouth. It functions as a versatile adjective to express a lack of desire to engage with something, whether it is food or a social interaction. When describing food, it often implies the presentation is messy or unhygienic.
Examples
The weather is so hot, it makes me lose my appetite.
Related words
Common phrases
even looking at it is unappetizing
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 冇胃口, which specifically refers to a lack of hunger. While 唔開胃 can mean the same, it also carries the nuance of something being repulsive or off-putting, whereas 冇胃口 is strictly about the physiological state of not wanting to eat.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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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.
