Blowing Water | Become an insider in Hong Kong with our guide to the trendiest Cantonese phrases in town
In her new weekly column, Blowing Water, Luisa Tam explains how the unique way Hongkongers talk can give you a handle on an ever-changing city
Many people, both locals and those who have lived here for a while, would agree that they never tire of Hong Kong, but the city certainly tires them out at times, as things tend to move at breakneck speed. Even in the blink of an eye, you might miss something exciting.
Living in our beloved city can sometimes be an assault on the senses and it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that even everyday life seems to evolve every second.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that even everyday life seems to evolve every second
One very smart Scotsman once said: “A city is more than a place in space, it is a drama in time.”
Hong Kong certainly fits the bill in this instance.
Hong Kong is a kaleidoscope of stories, intrigue and, of course, dramas. For those who are not locally born, understanding its social, cultural and political issues can certainly be challenging.
But do not worry, I am here to help. Blowing Water, which in Cantonese means to chat casually to help pass time, is your weekly place to find out more about this crazy, lovely and sometimes discordant place we call home.
First off, let’s take a look at the local dialect, which is a mix of Cantonese, standard Chinese and English.
