ngaa4 ngan4牙齦牙龈
Jyutpingngaa4 ngan4
Yalengàh ngàhn
Definition
Gums; the soft epithelial tissue surrounding the teeth.
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How it's used
While 牙齦 is the standard anatomical term, most native speakers prefer the more colloquial 牙肉 in everyday conversation. Using 牙齦 sounds slightly more clinical or formal, similar to how one might use 'gingiva' in English instead of 'gums'. It is frequently heard in medical contexts or when discussing specific dental issues with a professional.
Measure word
faai3塊faiExamples
My gums are bleeding from brushing my teeth.
Your gums are swollen, are you feeling 'heaty'?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 牙肉 when they mean the tooth itself, but 牙肉 specifically refers to the soft tissue. If you want to talk about the tooth, use 牙.
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.
