zaap3劄
Jyutpingzaap3
Yalejaap
Definition
To prick with a needle, or an official communique.
- to prick with a needle
- literaryofficial communique
colloquialbodydaily actions
How it's used
Used primarily in the context of sharp objects like needles or thorns piercing skin. While it can technically refer to historical official documents, that usage is effectively obsolete in modern spoken Cantonese. It carries a sharp, sudden physical sensation when used as a verb.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 拮, which is the much more common colloquial term for poking or pricking something with a finger or a sharp object. 劄 is often perceived as slightly more formal or specific to the action of a needle piercing.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
