cau2 gok3丑角
Jyutpingcau2 gok3
Yalecháu gok
Definition
Clown, buffoon, or comic character in a drama.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Beyond the literal theatrical context, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who intentionally acts foolish or makes a spectacle of themselves to entertain others. It carries a slightly derogatory or dismissive tone when applied to real people, suggesting they are not being taken seriously by their peers. It is distinct from 傻仔, which implies genuine stupidity or naivety, whereas a 丑角 is often performing a role for social effect.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He plays the clown in the movie and is always making people laugh.
Can you stop acting like a clown all the time and be a bit more serious?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 醜人, which refers to an ugly person. While both share the character 醜, 丑角 specifically relates to the performance role or the act of clowning around, not physical appearance.
Grammar color guide
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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.
