sam3 tau3滲透渗透
Jyutpingsam3 tau3
Yalesam tau
Definition
To permeate, seep, or pass through; osmosis; to infiltrate or gradually influence.
- to permeate or seep through, especially of liquids or gases
- technicalosmosis; the passage of water through a semipermeable membrane
- figurativeto infiltrate; (of ideas or power) to gradually influence or take hold
neutralother
How it's used
While often used for physical liquids moving through porous materials, this term is frequently employed metaphorically to describe the subtle spread of ideologies, influence, or market presence. It carries a sense of gradual, almost invisible progression that eventually saturates the target area. Unlike simple movement, it implies a process of becoming deeply integrated into the structure of the recipient.
Examples
The water has seeped into the wall.
How do you think this culture permeates into the youth circle?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe simple leaking or spilling, as it specifically requires the concept of passing through a barrier or membrane. For a sudden or large amount of liquid escaping, use 漏 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
