seoi3 zi2碎紙碎纸
Jyutpingseoi3 zi2
Yaleseui jí
Definition
Scraps of paper, or loose small change.
- shredded paper; scraps of paper; paper bits
- small change; coins and low-denomination banknotes
colloquialmoneydaily actions
How it's used
Distinguishing between the two meanings depends entirely on context. When referring to money, it is often used interchangeably with 散紙, though 碎紙 specifically highlights the small denomination or physical fragmentation of the currency. When referring to physical paper, it implies waste or debris rather than useful sheets.
Measure word
deoi1堆dēuiExamples
These are all small change, can you count if it's enough money?
That pile of paper scraps on the table is in the way, hurry up and throw it away.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 碎紙機, which is a paper shredder. Using 碎紙 to refer to a large banknote is incorrect, as it specifically denotes small change or low-value coins.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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Classifier
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Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
