cou1粗
Jyutpingcou1
Yalechōu
Definition
Thick in diameter, describing long, thin objects.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Primarily describes the diameter of cylindrical or long objects like ropes, pipes, or tree trunks. It carries a sense of robustness or lack of refinement, which is why it is also used metaphorically to describe coarse textures or unrefined behavior. When comparing two items, adding 啲 after the adjective is the standard way to express the comparative degree.
Examples
This pipe is very thick, it should be enough for our water needs.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 肥, which is used exclusively for the body size of people or animals. Using 粗 to describe a person's body is considered rude as it implies they are unrefined or bulky rather than just overweight.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
