mei1眯
Jyutpingmei1
Yalemēi
Definition
To close one's eyes.
colloquialbodydaily actions
How it's used
Often used with the directional particle 埋 to emphasize the completion of the action of closing. It is frequently used to describe squinting or narrowing the eyes when looking at something bright or trying to focus. While it can mean to close eyes for sleep, it is more commonly used for the physical act of shutting them tightly or partially.
Examples
Close your eyes and don't peek.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 瞇, which is a common variant character used for the same meaning. Learners sometimes mistake it for a verb meaning to blink, but it specifically refers to the state of being closed or narrowed.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
