seoi2 faan6 fong4水飯房水饭房
Jyutpingseoi2 faan6 fong4
Yaleséui faahn fòhng
Definition
Water and rice room; a slang term for a solitary confinement cell in a prison.
colloquialplaces
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of isolation and punishment, referring specifically to the practice of keeping a prisoner in a small, solitary cell. The name implies a diet restricted to the bare essentials of water and rice, highlighting the harsh conditions of such confinement. It is almost exclusively used in the context of prison life or when describing disciplinary measures within a correctional facility.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
He was locked in solitary confinement for fighting.
I heard that it is very hard to endure inside the solitary cell.
Related words
Common phrases
to be locked in solitary confinement
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a literal kitchen or pantry, as the name might sound like a place to store food to an outsider. It is strictly a slang term for a punitive solitary cell.
Grammar color guide
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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.
