zap1 zi6 lap1執字粒执字粒
Jyutpingzap1 zi6 lap1
Yalejāp jih lāp
Definition
To set type; to assemble individual character blocks for printing prior to computer typesetting.
colloquialworkother
How it's used
This term refers specifically to the manual labor of picking individual lead type characters from a case to form a printing plate. It is now a historical term that evokes the era of traditional letterpress printing in Hong Kong. While the literal action is obsolete in modern digital publishing, the phrase is still used metaphorically to describe someone who is being extremely meticulous or pedantic about word choice.
Examples
In the past, masters had to assemble lead type every day; it was very tiring.
Do you know how they used to assemble lead type for typesetting back then?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with modern digital typesetting or word processing. It is strictly tied to the physical, manual process of handling metal type blocks.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
