zaap3 zeoi2咂嘴
Jyutpingzaap3 zeoi2
Yalejaap jéui
Definition
To smack one's lips, often expressing admiration, tasting, or impatience.
colloquialfooddaily actions
How it's used
Often perceived as a sign of poor table manners in formal settings, though it can also signal genuine enjoyment of food. It specifically describes the sound made by the lips during chewing or tasting. The term is descriptive and carries a slightly critical tone when used to describe someone else's eating habits.
Examples
He likes smacking his lips when he eats, it is so noisy.
Why are you smacking your lips? Do you think it tastes good?
Related words
Common phrases
to smack one's lips repeatedly
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse this with general chewing sounds, but it specifically refers to the smacking noise caused by the lips parting. It is not used to describe the sound of grinding teeth or crunching food.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
