sai1 gwaa1 dou1西瓜刀
Jyutpingsai1 gwaa1 dou1
Yalesāi gwā dōu
Definition
Watermelon knife; a long, rectangular-bladed knife used for slicing large melons or as a weapon.
colloquialhomeother
How it's used
Refers to a large, long-bladed knife that is often associated with street violence in Hong Kong crime films. While it is technically a kitchen tool for cutting large melons, the term carries a strong connotation of danger and triad activity. Using it in casual conversation can sound quite dramatic or aggressive.
Measure word
baa2把báExamples
What is he trying to do holding that watermelon knife?
The watermelon knife at home is blunt, I can't cut fruit with it.
Related words
Common phrases
wielding a watermelon knife
Common mistake
Do not use this term to describe a standard kitchen knife, as it specifically refers to a very long and intimidating blade. Using it for a small paring knife will sound confusing or unintentionally funny.
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.
