zam1針针
Jyutpingzam1
Yalejām
Definition
To bite or sting with a proboscis or stinger.
colloquialanimalsdaily actions
How it's used
Distinguish this from the general word for biting, 咬. While 咬 refers to using teeth to grip or tear, 針 is specifically reserved for insects that pierce the skin with a stinger or proboscis to draw blood or inject venom. It is common to use the measure word 啖 when describing the action of being bitten or stung.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use 咬 for all insect bites, but using 針 is more precise for mosquitoes, bees, and wasps. Using 咬 for a bee sting sounds unnatural because bees do not use teeth to sting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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Classifier
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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.
