seoi3 ngan4碎銀碎银
Jyutpingseoi3 ngan4
Yaleseui ngàhn
Definition
Coins; small-denomination loose change.
colloquialmoney
How it's used
Refers specifically to small denomination coins rather than just any metal currency. It often carries a connotation of clutter or an accumulation of small, slightly inconvenient amounts of money. People frequently use it when talking about emptying a piggy bank or finding loose change at the bottom of a bag.
Measure word
zaa6拃jahExamples
Do you still have any loose change in your pocket?
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the formal term 硬幣, which is the standard word for coins in banking or official contexts. Using 碎銀 in a formal setting might sound overly casual or slightly dismissive of the value of the money.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
