saang1 zik1生積生积
Definition
To suffer from infantile malnutrition due to improper feeding, or to be infected with intestinal parasites.
- to suffer from infantile malnutrition or indigestion caused by improper feeding
- to have intestinal parasites, causing weight loss and anemia
How it's used
Traditionally refers to a condition in children characterized by poor appetite, a bloated belly, and stunted growth, often attributed to improper diet or parasites. It is frequently used colloquially as a lighthearted or teasing explanation for why someone remains thin despite eating a large amount of food. The term carries a slightly old-fashioned, folk-medicine connotation rather than a strictly clinical one.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe serious medical conditions or actual parasitic infections in adults, as it is primarily a colloquial term associated with childhood health beliefs. Using it to describe a thin adult is usually meant as a joke about their metabolism rather than a literal diagnosis.
Grammar color guide
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.
