zaa1 zi2渣滓
Definition
Residue, dregs, or waste; also used figuratively for a useless or valueless person or thing.
- residue; dregs; what is left after extracting the essence
- figurativea useless or valueless person or thing; dregs of society
How it's used
While referring to physical waste like coffee grounds or dregs, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe people who are considered morally corrupt or worthless. It carries a strong negative connotation, similar to calling someone human trash. In everyday speech, people often prefer the more colloquial term 渣 for physical residue, reserving 渣滓 for more formal contexts or harsh insults.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 渣, which is the common, everyday word for physical dregs or crumbs. Using 渣滓 in casual conversation to describe simple food scraps can sound overly dramatic or formal, as if you are making a moral judgment rather than just talking about trash.
Grammar color guide
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.
