tung1 sam1通心
Jyutpingtung1 sam1
Yaletūng sām
Definition
Hollow; empty inside.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Describes objects that have a clear, empty path running through the middle, like a straw or a pipe. It is distinct from empty, which focuses on the lack of contents inside a container. You will often hear it used when describing hardware or craft materials.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the food item 通心粉, which refers specifically to macaroni. Using it to describe something that is just empty inside rather than having a hole through it can sound confusing to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
