caau3 / caau2耖
Jyutpingcaau3 / caau2
Yalechaau / cháau
Definition
To dig up, rummage through, or turn over with a tool; to harrow.
colloquialfoodwork
How it's used
Beyond the literal culinary meaning of stir-frying, this verb is widely used in business and social contexts to describe active trading or speculation. When applied to people, it carries a sense of firing or dismissing someone from their job, often used in the phrase 炒魷魚. It implies a quick, high-energy action whether in the kitchen or the office.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin term for frying, but in Cantonese, it specifically refers to the rapid stir-fry technique. Do not use it for deep-frying, which is better expressed as 炸.
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.
