khoom qab zib
The English phrase "candy" is translated into Hmong as khoom qab zib.
khoom qab zib is used to refer to candy in general or to a collection of sweets.
Meaning: piece of candy (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a combination of khoom (thing or object), qab (tasty or delicious) and zib (sweet), which literally translates to "sweet tasty things".
How does it change in a sentence?
This phrase functions as a mass noun when referring to candy or sweets.
Did you know?
- In Hmong, the word qab can refer to both 'sweetness' and the 'back' of an object, depending on its origin.
- Because khoom qab zib is a mass noun, Hmong speakers often add a specific counter word to specify a single 'piece' of candy.
- The structure of khoom qab zib follows a pattern where the most general category comes first and the specific qualities follow.
Examples in context
- Kuv xav tau khoom qab zib.I want some candy.
- Lub tsev ntawd muaj khoom qab zib.That house has candy.
- Thov muab khoom qab zib rau kuv.Please give candy to me.
Example conversation
Mai and Xiong are talking about snacks.
- MaiXiong, koj puas muaj khoom qab zib?Xiong, do you have any candy?
- XiongMuaj, kuv muaj ib thim rau koj.Yes, I have one piece for you.
- MaiUa tsaug, kuv nyiam khoom qab zib heev.Thank you, I like candy very much.
- XiongKoj welcome, Mai.You're welcome, Mai.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries khoom, qab, CC BY-SA 4.0.
