bou3 doi6 hei3布袋戲布袋戏
Definition
Glove puppetry; a type of puppet show using hollow wooden heads with cloth bodies controlled by the performer's hand.
How it's used
Refers specifically to the traditional glove puppetry style originating from Fujian, where the performer controls the puppet by inserting their hand into the hollow body. It is often associated with temple festivals or traditional cultural events rather than modern commercial theatre. While it remains a niche art form, it is highly respected for the intricate skill required to manipulate the puppets and perform different character voices simultaneously.
Measure word
ceot1齣chēutExamples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general puppetry like marionettes or shadow plays. Ensure you distinguish it from 扯線木偶, which uses strings, or 皮影戲, which uses shadows behind a screen.
Grammar color guide
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.
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- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.



