sai1 joek6西藥西药
Jyutpingsai1 joek6
Yalesāi yeukh
Definition
Western medicine
neutralhealth
How it's used
Distinguishing between Western and Chinese medicine is a fundamental part of daily life in Hong Kong. People often switch between the two depending on the ailment, and it is common to hear someone ask if you prefer to see a doctor for 西藥 or 中藥. Unlike some cultures where medicine is just medicine, here the distinction often implies different philosophies of treatment.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
nei5 sik6 zo2 sai1 joek6 mei6 aa4
你食咗西藥未呀？
Have you taken your Western medicine yet?
le1 zek3 sai1 joek6 hou2 ging6 sik6 jyun4 wui6 ji5 hou2 ngaan5 fan3
呢隻西藥好勁，食完會好眼瞓。
This Western medicine is very strong, you will feel very sleepy after taking it.
Related words
Common phrases
sik6 sai1 joek6
食西藥
take Western medicine
pui3 sai1 joek6
配西藥
get a prescription filled
Common mistake
Do not confuse 西藥 with 藥丸, which specifically means pills or tablets. While many 西藥 come in pill form, the term 西藥 refers to the category of medicine itself, whereas 藥丸 refers to the physical shape or format of the medication.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
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.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- 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.
