coi4 maau6才貌
Jyutpingcoi4 maau6
Yalechòih maauh
Definition
Talent and appearance; a person's capability and looks.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term is almost exclusively used in the four character idiom 才貌雙全 to describe someone who possesses both intelligence and physical attractiveness. It carries a slightly formal or literary tone, often appearing in descriptions of characters in stories or media. Using it outside of this specific idiom can sound unnatural or overly poetic in casual conversation.
Examples
She really has both talent and beauty, many people admire her.
Is it really necessary to look for talent and appearance when choosing a partner?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use it as a standalone noun phrase, but it is rarely used on its own in spoken Cantonese. It is much more common to use the full idiom 才貌雙全 to describe a person's attributes.
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.
