sai2 seoi2 saam1洗水衫
Jyutpingsai2 seoi2 saam1
Yalesái séui sāam
Definition
An item of clothing that is worn very often; everyday clothes.
colloquialclothing
How it's used
Refers to garments that have been washed so many times they have become soft, comfortable, and worn-in. It carries a positive connotation of familiarity and comfort, often implying a favorite item that you reach for without thinking. It is distinct from just old clothes, as it emphasizes the pleasant texture resulting from frequent laundering.
Measure word
gin2件gínExamples
This is my favorite go-to shirt.
Just pick out a piece of everyday clothing to wear.
Related words
Common phrases
the worn-in clothes one is used to wearing
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of washing clothes, which is 洗衫. While the characters contain the word for wash, the compound functions as a noun describing the state of the fabric rather than the action.
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.
