tong4 sat1塘蝨塘虱
Jyutpingtong4 sat1
Yaletòhng sāt
Definition
Airbreathing catfish; a freshwater edible fish with whiskers that is active at night.
colloquialfoodanimals
How it's used
Often associated with traditional Cantonese home cooking, this fish is known for its ability to survive in low oxygen water. It is frequently prepared in clay pot dishes with ginger and scallions to mask its distinct muddy flavor. Many locals prefer buying it alive to ensure the meat texture remains firm.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
The airbreathing catfish at that market stall looks quite fresh.
Do you know how to cook airbreathing catfish so it tastes good?
Related words
Common phrases
braised airbreathing catfish with ginger and scallions
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with generic catfish, as the specific term refers to the airbreathing variety commonly found in local wet markets. Be careful when handling them alive, as their pectoral fins can be sharp and cause painful pricks.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
