saan1 zaai6山寨
Jyutpingsaan1 zaai6
Yalesāan jaaih
Definition
Imitation, counterfeit, or trademark-infringing goods; to copy or plagiarize a brand.
colloquialshoppingother
How it's used
Originally referring to small, unlicensed family workshops in Hong Kong, the term evolved to describe mass-produced counterfeit goods. It carries a strong connotation of low quality and lack of originality. While it can function as a noun describing the product, it is frequently used as a verb to describe the act of copying a brand.
Examples
Why did you buy a counterfeit phone?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with generic words for fake like 假. 山寨 specifically implies a systematic imitation of a brand or design rather than just a simple forgery.
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.
