saai3曬晒
Jyutpingsaai3
Yalesaai
Definition
To expose to the sun, sunbathe, or dry in the sun.
colloquialdaily actionsweather
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of solar exposure, this verb is frequently used in the colloquial sense of 'to display' or 'to show off' something, often implying an element of vanity or pride. It is also used as a perfective aspect marker in some contexts to emphasize that an action has been completed entirely, such as in 賣曬 or 食曬.
Examples
You go to the beach to sunbathe all the time, your skin will get badly damaged.
Related words
Common phrases
to sunbathe
to show off one's good fortune
Common mistake
Do not confuse the literal meaning of sun exposure with the figurative usage of showing off, as the latter can sound boastful depending on the context. Also, ensure you do not use it to mean 'drying' in a machine, as that would require a different verb like 烘乾.
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.
