cau1 sim4秋蟬秋蝉
Jyutpingcau1 sim4
Yalechāu sìhm
Definition
Harvest fly; cicada.
neutralanimalsnature
How it's used
While 秋蟬 specifically refers to cicadas appearing in late summer or autumn, it is often used interchangeably with 蟬 in casual speech. The sound of these insects is a quintessential sensory marker of the humid Hong Kong summer heat. Unlike some other insect names, this term carries a slightly more literary or poetic nuance compared to the common term 蟬.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
You can always hear cicadas chirping in the park during summer.
Related words
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.
