zam1 seoi2斟水
Jyutpingzam1 seoi2
Yalejām séui
Definition
To pour water; to fill a cup or container with water.
colloquialdaily actionsfood
How it's used
Focuses specifically on the act of pouring liquid into a container, rather than just the act of supplying water. It is commonly used in social settings like restaurants or when hosting guests at home. The term implies a level of care or service, making it more polite than simply saying you are getting water for yourself.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 倒水, which often implies dumping or pouring water out, such as emptying a container or discarding liquid.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
