baau1鮑鲍
Jyutpingbaau1
Yalebāau
Definition
A Chinese surname, typically transliterated as Pau or Paw.
neutralpeople
How it's used
This surname is often associated with the famous Hong Kong politician Pau Pui-lung. While it is also the character for abalone, when used as a name, it is always pronounced with a specific tone that distinguishes it from the food item in casual speech. It is a relatively uncommon surname compared to names like Chan or Wong.
Examples
Mr. Pau is my former colleague.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the word for abalone, which is also written as 鮑. Ensure you do not accidentally refer to someone by the name of a luxury seafood item in a formal setting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
