can4 tou2塵土尘土
Jyutpingcan4 tou2
Yalechàhn tóu
Definition
Dust; very fine grey earth or soil.
neutralhomenature
How it's used
While 塵土 is a standard term for dust, Cantonese speakers often prefer the simpler 塵 when referring to household dust. Using 塵土 adds a slightly more descriptive or literary weight, often implying a layer of fine dirt or soil rather than just the light fluff found on a bookshelf.
Measure word
deoi1堆dēuiExamples
The house hasn't been wiped for a long time, it's all dust.
Related words
Common phrases
dust flying everywhere
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.
