siu2 sik6 bou6小食部
Jyutpingsiu2 sik6 bou6
Yalesíu sihk bouh
Definition
Tuck shop or canteen, especially in primary and secondary schools selling snacks, drinks, and stationery.
colloquialschoolfood
How it's used
This term is deeply tied to the nostalgic experience of Hong Kong school life. It specifically refers to the small vendor inside a school campus, rather than a convenience store or a general snack shop on the street. While modern schools may have more formal catering services, the term remains the standard way to describe the place where students grab a quick bite between classes.
Measure word
gaan1間gānExamples
During recess, many students rush to the tuck shop to buy snacks.
Do you remember that sausage bun they used to sell at the tuck shop?
Related words
Common phrases
the lady working at the tuck shop
to go to the tuck shop
Common mistake
Do not use this term to describe a convenience store like 7-Eleven or Circle K, as those are referred to as 便利店. Using it for a regular street-side snack shop can also sound confusing or slightly out of place.
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.
