bin3 taai3變態变态
Jyutpingbin3 taai3
Yalebin taai
Definition
To metamorphose; to undergo a rapid structural change after birth or hatching.
neutralanimalsnature
How it's used
Biological metamorphosis is a technical term used in scientific contexts to describe life cycles. Outside of biology, the term is almost exclusively used as an adjective meaning perverted or abnormal, which is the most common way a native speaker will encounter it. Using it to describe a natural life cycle requires a clear scientific context to avoid confusion with the derogatory slang usage.
Examples
This type of insect needs to undergo metamorphosis before it can turn into an adult.
Do you know which animals need to undergo metamorphosis?
Related words
Common phrases
complete metamorphosis
incomplete metamorphosis
Common mistake
Learners often accidentally use this word to describe personal change or growth, but it carries a strong negative connotation of being a pervert or deviant in social contexts. Always ensure the subject is an animal or insect when using it in its biological sense.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
