cau4囚
Jyutpingcau4
Yalechàuh
Definition
To imprison, confine, or deprive someone of their physical freedom.
writtenother
How it's used
This character is primarily a morpheme found in formal or legalistic compound words rather than a standalone verb in everyday speech. When describing the act of being locked up in daily life, people almost exclusively use the verb 坐監. Using 囚 as a standalone verb sounds highly literary or dramatic, often evoking a sense of historical or cinematic confinement.
Examples
He broke the law and is currently being imprisoned.
How long has this person been imprisoned in the cell?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb like 鎖, but it specifically carries the legal or punitive weight of state-sanctioned imprisonment. Do not use it to describe being locked in a room by accident or a simple door lock.
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.
