zap1 hei2執起执起
Jyutpingzap1 hei2
Yalejāp héi
Definition
To pick up; to lift up something with one's hands.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This verb is specifically used for picking up objects from a surface, such as the floor or a table. It implies a deliberate action of reaching down or grabbing something that has been placed or dropped. Unlike the more general verb 攞, which focuses on taking or grabbing, 執起 emphasizes the physical act of lifting something into one's hand.
Examples
He picked up the phone and left immediately.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 執嘢, which is a common colloquial phrase meaning to tidy up or pack one's belongings. While 執起 is for a single object, 執嘢 refers to the general process of organizing or clearing an area.
Grammar color guide
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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.
