seoi2 zing1水晶
Jyutpingseoi2 zing1
Yaleséui jīng
Definition
Crystal; a transparent or semi-transparent mineral used to make jewelry or ornaments.
neutralother
How it's used
Beyond the literal mineral, this term is frequently used in spiritual or lifestyle contexts regarding energy and healing. It often appears in discussions about luck or feng shui, where people choose specific types for their supposed properties. When referring to a single piece, speakers almost always use the classifier 嚿 to emphasize its solid, chunky nature.
Measure word
gau6嚿gauhExamples
She gave me a crystal bracelet.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 玻璃, which refers to ordinary glass. While some high-quality lead glass is marketed as crystal in English, in Cantonese, 水晶 specifically implies the natural mineral or a high-end synthetic version, whereas 玻璃 is strictly for common glass objects.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
