zeoi1 zai2錐仔锥仔
Jyutpingzeoi1 zai2
Yalejēui jái
Definition
An awl or pricker tool used for piercing small holes.
colloquialhomeother
How it's used
Refers specifically to a small, handheld pointed tool used for piercing materials like leather, paper, or wood. The suffix 仔 adds a sense of diminutiveness, implying it is a small or delicate version of a larger awl. It is commonly found in household tool kits or used by craftspeople for precision work.
Measure word
zi1支jīExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 針, which is a sewing needle. While both are sharp, 錐仔 is intended for puncturing thicker materials and usually has a handle, whereas 針 is for threading and fabric.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
