nap1凹
Jyutpingnap1
Yalenāp
Definition
Concave, dented, or sunken; having a surface lower than the surrounding area.
colloquialdescriptionsbody
How it's used
Pronunciation is key here as it is often read as nap1 in colloquial speech when describing a dent or a dimple. While the formal reading is aau1, you will rarely hear locals use that when talking about a physical depression on an object or a person's face. It functions as a descriptive adjective that implies a loss of surface integrity.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse the colloquial pronunciation nap1 with the formal reading aau1, as using the latter can sound overly academic or stiff in casual conversation. Also, ensure you do not use it to describe something that is simply flat, as it specifically requires a concave or sunken shape.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
