nan2 zoek2撚雀捻雀
Jyutpingnan2 zoek2
Yalenán jéuk
Definition
To stroll around while carrying a caged pet bird.
colloquialdaily actionsanimals
How it's used
This term captures a specific traditional hobby where elderly men take their pet birds out for fresh air and social interaction. It implies a slow, leisurely pace and is deeply tied to the culture of old-school tea houses and public parks. Using this word suggests an appreciation for a vanishing lifestyle rather than just the act of carrying a cage.
Examples
He goes to the park every day to walk his bird after retiring.
Do you see that old man over there walking his bird?
Common mistake
Be careful not to confuse this with the vulgar slang term 撚, which is a highly offensive profanity. When referring to the hobby of bird-keeping, ensure the full phrase 撚雀 is used clearly to avoid any misunderstanding.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
