saan1 wu4 sek6珊瑚石

Jyutpingsaan1 wu4 sek6
Yalesāan wùh sehk

Definition

Coral stones or coral rocks.

colloquialnature

How it's used

Refers specifically to pieces of dead coral that have washed up on the shore or are found in shallow water. It is distinct from live coral reefs which are usually referred to as 珊瑚礁. People often collect these as souvenirs, but it is important to remember that removing them from protected marine areas is illegal in Hong Kong.

Measure word

nap1nāp

Examples

There are many coral stones by the beach here.

Common phrases

to pick up coral stones

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 珊瑚 which refers to the living organism or the precious material used in jewelry. 珊瑚石 specifically emphasizes the rock-like, weathered state of the coral.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector