zaam2斬斩
Jyutpingzaam2
Yalejáam
Definition
To chop or cleave forcefully with a wide-bodied blade, rather than slicing back and forth.
colloquialfooddaily actions
How it's used
Focuses on the downward force and the weight of the blade, making it the standard term for butchery in a wet market. It implies a singular, decisive motion that is distinct from the repetitive sawing or sliding motion of 切. When used in a social context, it often carries a violent or aggressive connotation.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this for slicing vegetables or bread, as that requires the precision of 切. Using 斬 for delicate tasks sounds like you are trying to destroy the food rather than prepare it.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
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Classifier
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
