zi3 wai3 ci2智慧齒智慧齿
Jyutpingzi3 wai3 ci2
Yaleji wai chí
Definition
Wisdom tooth; a person's third molar, located at the very back of the mouth.
colloquialbodyhealth
How it's used
Unlike the English term which implies wisdom, the Cantonese term focuses on the anatomical position at the very back of the mouth. It is very common to discuss having them removed, as they frequently cause crowding or infection. People often use the verb 剝 to refer to the extraction process rather than the more formal 拔.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
My wisdom tooth hurts so much that I cannot sleep.
Related words
Common phrases
to have a wisdom tooth extracted
wisdom tooth inflammation
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse the pronunciation of 齒 with 屎, which sounds like the word for excrement. Ensure the dental term is pronounced with a clear, sharp dental stop.
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.
