bo1 lo4 maa4菠蘿麻菠萝麻
Jyutpingbo1 lo4 maa4
Yalebō lòh màh
Definition
Sisal; a species of agave cultivated for its hard fibers, with economic and medicinal uses.
neutralnature
How it's used
Botanical names in Cantonese often overlap with common food items, leading to confusion. While 菠蘿 refers to pineapple, 菠蘿麻 is a distinct fiber plant that is not edible. It is primarily used for industrial purposes like making ropes or mats rather than for consumption.
Measure word
fo2棵fóExamples
Many sisal plants are grown here.
Do you know where they sell sisal?
Related words
Common phrases
sisal rope
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly assume that because the name contains 菠蘿, it must be related to the fruit. Avoid using it in a culinary context or confusing it with pineapple leaves.
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.



