saat3 kwan2殺菌杀菌
Jyutpingsaat3 kwan2
Yalesaat kwán
Definition
To sterilize or disinfect by killing harmful bacteria and microorganisms.
neutralhealthdaily actions
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the elimination of harmful microorganisms rather than general cleaning. It is frequently used in the context of household hygiene, such as using bleach or alcohol-based sprays to treat surfaces. While it sounds scientific, it is perfectly natural to use in casual conversation when discussing health precautions.
Examples
This spray can help you kill bacteria.
Remember to sterilise your hands after washing them.
Related words
Common phrases
disinfectant spray
antibacterial hand soap
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 消毒, which is a broader term for disinfection. While 殺菌 specifically targets bacteria, 消毒 covers a wider range of pathogens including viruses and fungi.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
