cau1 tiu4抽條抽条
Jyutpingcau1 tiu4
Yalechāu tìuh
Definition
To sprout, to grow tall and slim, or to shrink in size.
- to bud or sprout
- to grow tall and slim, especially during puberty
- to shrink or contract in size
colloquialbodynature
How it's used
Focuses on the rapid, vertical growth of plants or the sudden transition of a child into a lanky teenager. When applied to people, it carries a positive connotation of becoming elegant or slender rather than just losing weight. It implies a noticeable change in physical stature over a period of time.
Examples
He was very chubby as a kid, but he has become very slim after growing up.
Related words
Common phrases
sprouting and growing
to have a lanky or slim figure
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 縮水, which specifically refers to fabric shrinking after a wash or a reduction in size due to external pressure. 抽條 is reserved for biological growth or the natural development of a slim physique.
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.
