Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “takeout” in Cantonese! Whether you’re planning to order food from a Cantonese restaurant or simply looking to expand your vocabulary, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express “takeout” in Cantonese, along with some useful tips, examples, and a touch of regional variations. So, let’s dive in and get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Takeout” in Cantonese
Here are a couple of formal terms you can use when referring to “takeout” in Cantonese:
1. 外賣 (ngoi6 maai5)
The most commonly used term for “takeout” in Cantonese is “外賣” (ngoi6 maai5). It literally translates to “outside sell” and is widely understood and used throughout various Cantonese-speaking regions.
Example:
我要點一份外賣。(ngo5 jiu3 dim2 jat1 fan6 ngoi6 maai5)
I would like to order some takeout.
2. 外賣食物 (ngoi6 maai5 sik6 mat6)
If you want to be more specific, you can use “外賣食物” (ngoi6 maai5 sik6 mat6) which means “takeout food.” This term emphasizes the fact that you’re referring to food specifically.
Example:
你可以幫我訂一份外賣食物嗎？(nei5 ho2 ji5 bong1 ngo5 deng6 jat1 fan6 ngoi6 maai5 sik6 mat6 maa3?)
Can you help me order some takeout food?
Informal Ways to Say “Takeout” in Cantonese
Now let’s learn some informal expressions for “takeout” that you can use in casual conversations:
1. 出街食 (ceot1 gaai1 sik6)
“出街食” (ceot1 gaai1 sik6) is a popular colloquial phrase among Cantonese speakers, especially in Hong Kong. It literally translates to “eat while heading out.”
Example:
我要返屋企，可以買個出街食嘛？(ngo5 jiu3 faan1 uk1 kei2 ho2 maai5 go3 ceot1 gaai1 sik6 maa3?)
I’m going home. Can I buy some takeout food?
2. 隨走隨食 (ceoi4 zau2 ceoi4 sik6)
Another informal phrase used for “takeout” is “隨走隨食” (ceoi4 zau2 ceoi4 sik6), meaning “eat as you go.” This term implies the convenience of grabbing food on the go.
Example:
我剛下班，想買份隨走隨食嘅。 (ngo5 gong1 haa6 baan1, soeng2 maai5 fan6 ceoi4 zau2 ceoi4 sik6 ge3)
I just finished work and want to buy some takeout food.
Tips and Regional Variations
Here are some tips and additional variations you should keep in mind:
1. Context Matters
When using these phrases, make sure to consider the context. If you’re in a formal setting or speaking to someone you’re not familiar with, it’s better to use the formal terms mentioned earlier.
2. Regional Variations
Cantonese phrases may vary slightly across different regions. For instance, in certain areas of Guangdong province, you might hear “外帶” (ngoi6 doi6) instead of “外賣” (ngoi6 maai5), which also means “takeout.” These regional variations add richness to the language but are not necessary for day-to-day communication.
3. Politeness
Remember to use polite language when ordering takeout, especially when interacting with service staff. Add “請” (cing2) before your request to politely convey your intention. For example, “請給我一份外賣” (cing2 kap1 ngo5 jat1 fan6 ngoi6 maai5) means “Please give me one order of takeout.”
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our guide on how to say “takeout” in Cantonese. Now that you’re equipped with both formal and informal phrases, along with some tips and examples, you’ll feel confident when ordering takeout in Cantonese restaurants or engaging in casual conversations. Remember to adapt your language based on the context and always be polite when interacting with others. Enjoy exploring the Cantonese language and savoring some delicious takeout food!
