waa6 haap6 zi2話匣子话匣子
Jyutpingwaa6 haap6 zi2
Yalewah haahp jí
Definition
Chatterbox; someone who loves to talk.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This term is borrowed from Mandarin and is used to describe someone who is exceptionally talkative or enjoys gossip. While it is understood by all Cantonese speakers, it is slightly more literary or descriptive than native Cantonese expressions like 講唔停 or 吹水王. It carries a slightly playful or exasperated tone depending on the context of the conversation.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is such a chatterbox, he just won't stop talking.
Common phrases
to start a conversation
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal box or a physical object because of the character 匣. It is strictly a metaphorical noun referring to a person's personality trait, not a container.
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.
