zing1 zai3精製精制
Jyutpingzing1 zai3
Yalejīng jai
Definition
To refine; to purify a substance by removing impurities through chemical or physical processes.
neutralworkfood
How it's used
Refers specifically to industrial or laboratory processes that strip away impurities to create a higher grade product. It is almost exclusively used in technical, scientific, or manufacturing contexts rather than for cooking or daily tasks. When discussing food, it often carries a connotation of being overly processed or stripped of natural nutrients.
Examples
This sugar has been refined.
How does the factory refine this mineral?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 製作, which is a general term for making or producing something. Using 精製 for simple tasks like making a sandwich or building a model will sound unnatural and overly formal.
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.
