aau1 han4拗痕
Jyutpingaau1 han4
Yaleāau hàhn
Definition
To scratch an itch.
colloquialbodydaily actions
How it's used
This term is specifically used for the physical act of scratching an itch, often involving the fingernails. While 痕 refers to the sensation of itchiness, 拗痕 describes the relief-seeking action. It is common to hear people use it when asking for help to reach an inaccessible spot like the middle of the back.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse 拗 with 拗, which can also mean to argue or disagree in other contexts. When used for scratching, it must be paired with 痕 to avoid ambiguity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
