wai1 si6威士
Jyutpingwai1 si6
Yalewāi sih
Definition
Rags or scraps of fabric.
colloquialhomedaily actions
How it's used
Refers specifically to scraps of fabric or old cloth used for cleaning tasks. It is a loanword derived from the English word waste, reflecting its historical use as industrial waste material repurposed for wiping machinery or surfaces. While widely understood, some speakers might prefer the more descriptive term 抹布.
Measure word
faai3塊faiExamples
Do we have any spare rags at home to mop the floor?
Related words
Common phrases
a piece of rag
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the alcoholic beverage 威士忌, which is a completely different loanword.
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.
