aau2 caai4拗柴
Jyutpingaau2 caai4
Yaleáau chàaih
Definition
To sprain one's ankle.
colloquialbodyhealth
How it's used
This term is a vivid piece of Cantonese imagery that compares the snapping of a human ankle to the act of breaking a piece of firewood. It is the standard way to describe this specific injury in daily life, far more common than using formal medical terminology. You will often hear it used with a sense of frustration or annoyance, especially if the speaker is prone to recurring injuries.
Examples
Be careful when you walk, it is very easy to sprain your ankle.
Related words
Common phrases
sprain one's ankle all the time
Common mistake
Do not use this for other types of sprains or injuries. It is strictly reserved for the ankle. If you twist your wrist or knee, you must use 扭傷 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
