saa1 si2沙士
Jyutpingsaa1 si2
Yalesā sí
Definition
Sarsae (a sarsaparilla-flavored soft drink), or SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
- Sarsae; Sarsi; a sarsaparilla-flavored carbonated soft drink
- SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
colloquialdrink
How it's used
Sarsae is a distinctively herbal, root beer like soda that holds a nostalgic place in Hong Kong culture. It is often described as having a medicinal taste, which polarizes people into either loving it or finding it completely undrinkable. Note that the term is also the standard name for the SARS epidemic, so context usually clarifies whether you are talking about the drink or the historical health crisis.
Measure word
gun3罐gunExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Be careful not to confuse the drink with the medical condition, as both are referred to as 沙士. If you are at a restaurant, context makes it clear, but in conversation about history, use full terms like 沙士疫症 to avoid confusion.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
