ming4 ngaa5明瓦
Jyutpingming4 ngaa5
Yalemìhng ngáh
Definition
A type of roof tile made from clamshells polished into squares with rounded corners.
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How it's used
Historically, these tiles were used as a substitute for glass in traditional architecture because they are translucent. They are rarely seen in modern Hong Kong buildings and are mostly found in historical preservation sites or traditional village houses. The term is highly specific to architectural history and is not part of everyday vocabulary.
Measure word
faai3塊faiExamples
In the past, roofs would use clam-shell tiles to let light in.
Related words
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.



