cau3臭
Jyutpingcau3
Yalechau
Definition
Smelly; stinking; emitting an unpleasant odor.
colloquialdescriptionsbody
How it's used
Beyond physical odors, this word is frequently used to describe someone who is arrogant or has an unpleasant attitude, often paired with 串. It carries a strong negative connotation and is considered quite blunt when directed at a person. When referring to food, it can sometimes describe a pungent but desirable smell, such as with 臭豆腐.
Examples
These socks have been sitting for a long time, they really stink.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a bad smell in a formal or polite setting, as it is very direct and can be offensive. Use 難聞 instead if you need to be more tactful.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
