Learning how to say “takeaway” in different languages can be incredibly helpful, especially when traveling or living in a foreign country. In Cantonese-speaking regions, including Hong Kong and parts of southern China, knowing how to communicate your desire for takeaway food is essential. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to say “takeaway” in Cantonese, providing you with useful tips and examples. Let’s get started!
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Formal Ways to Say “Takeaway” in Cantonese
In formal situations, such as when speaking to a restaurant staff or someone you are not familiar with, it is best to use the following phrases to convey your request for takeaway:
- 外卖 (wai6 maai6)
This is the most commonly used term for “takeaway” in Cantonese. It directly translates to “outside-selling” and is widely understood throughout Cantonese-speaking regions. - 带走 (daai3 zeoi2)
Another formal option, meaning “to take away.” It can be used interchangeably with “外卖” in most contexts. This phrase is useful when you want to sound slightly more polite. - 打包 (daa2 baau1)
Although more commonly associated with “packing” or “to go” in Cantonese, “打包” can also be used to request takeaway food in a formal setting. This term is frequently used in Hong Kong.
Informal Ways to Say “Takeaway” in Cantonese
When speaking with friends or in casual situations, you can use the following phrases to express your desire for takeaway food in a more relaxed manner:
- 外賣 (noi6 maai6)
This informal variation of “外卖” is commonly used among friends or in casual conversations. It has the same meaning and can be used throughout Cantonese-speaking areas, but it is less formal. - 帶走 (daai6 zo2)
Similar to “带走,” this informal version is widely used to request takeaway food in a casual setting. It is more commonly heard in areas outside Hong Kong, such as Guangdong province in China. - 拎走 (ling1 zo2)
“拎走” is a colloquial phrase that literally translates to “to carry and go.” Although not as widely understood as the previous options, it is frequently used by locals in Hong Kong to indicate a desire for takeaway food.
Tips for Ordering Takeaway in Cantonese
To make your ordering experience smoother, consider the following tips when requesting takeaway food in Cantonese:
1. Politeness Goes a Long Way
Although casual phrases are acceptable in many scenarios, it never hurts to be polite. Adding a “please” at the end of your sentence can make a difference. For example:
“外賣，唔該。” (noi6 maai6, m4 goi1)
“Takeaway, please.”
2. Specify Your Order Clearly
When ordering takeaway, it’s important to clearly state what you want. Try specifying the items and quantities, and if you have any preferences, don’t be afraid to communicate them. Here’s an example:
“我要兩份炒飯打包，唔該。” (ngo5 jiu3 loeng5 fan6 caau2 faan6 daa2 baau1, m4 goi1)
“I’d like two servings of fried rice to go, please.”
3. Consider Using Basic Cantonese Numbers
Knowing a few basic numbers in Cantonese can significantly enhance your ordering experience. You can use them to express quantities, prices, or sizes. Here are a few useful examples:
- 一 (jat1) – one
- 二 (ji6) – two
- 三 (saam1) – three
- 四 (sei3) – four
- 五 (ng5) – five
Examples of Ordering Takeaway in Cantonese
Let’s put everything together and look at some examples of ordering takeaway in Cantonese:
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“外卖，我要一份炒麵，带走。” (wai6 maai6, ngo5 jiu3 jat1 fan6 caau2 min6, daai3 zeoi2)
“Takeaway, I’d like one serving of stir-fried noodles to go.” -
“外賣，我要兩份糖醋雞翼，拎走。” (noi6 maai6, ngo5 jiu3 loeng5 fan6 tong4 cou3 gai1 jik6, ling1 zo2)
“Takeaway, I’d like two servings of sweet and sour chicken wings.” -
“打包，我要半斤叉燒，唔該。” (daa2 baau1, ngo5 jiu3 bun3 gan1 cha1 siu1, m4 goi1)
“To go, I’d like half a pound of barbecue pork, please.”
Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t hesitate to use these phrases when ordering takeaway in Cantonese-speaking regions. The locals will appreciate your efforts, and it will undoubtedly make your food journey much more enjoyable. Enjoy your delicious takeaway meals!
