caai2踩
Jyutpingcaai2
Yalecháai
Definition
To step on, tread on, or trample.
colloquialdaily actionstransport
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of stepping on something, this verb is commonly used to describe riding a bicycle or operating a foot pedal. It also carries a figurative sense of belittling or criticizing someone, similar to the English phrase to step on someone to get ahead. When used in the context of cycling, it emphasizes the physical action of pushing the pedals down.
Examples
Do you cycle to work?
Related words
Common phrases
to ride a bicycle
to walk a tightrope
Common mistake
Avoid using this word to mean walking in general, as it specifically implies the action of pressing down with the foot. For simply walking, use 行路 instead.
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.
