ciu4譙谯
Jyutpingciu4
Yalechìuh
Definition
A watchtower or lookout tower.
writtenplaces
How it's used
Refers specifically to a structure used for observation or defense in historical contexts. It is rarely used in modern daily speech and is mostly encountered in historical dramas, literature, or descriptions of ancient architecture. It carries a formal or literary tone that distinguishes it from modern observation decks or towers.
Measure word
zo2座jóExamples
In ancient times, people would watch from the watchtower to see if any enemies were coming.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the slang term 譙, which is a vulgar verb meaning to scold or berate someone in some Chinese dialects. In Cantonese, the noun for watchtower is strictly literary and does not carry the aggressive meaning found in other regional varieties.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
