zi1 mei6滋味
Jyutpingzi1 mei6
Yalejī meih
Definition
Taste, flavor, or food seasoning; figuratively, a feeling, experience, or sensation.
- taste; flavor; seasoning
- figurativefeeling; experience; sensation
colloquialfoodemotion
How it's used
Beyond describing the literal flavor of food, this word is frequently used to describe the subjective quality of an experience or a feeling. It often carries a sense of depth or lingering effect, whether positive or negative. When used for food, it implies a rich or satisfying taste rather than just a basic flavor profile.
Examples
The food at this restaurant is very flavorful.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 味道, which is the neutral, objective term for flavor or smell. 滋味 is more descriptive and emotive, often used to comment on how enjoyable a meal is or how painful a specific life experience feels.
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.
