diu1叼
Jyutpingdiu1
Yaledīu
Definition
To hold or pick something up in the mouth.
colloquialanimalsdaily actions
How it's used
Primarily describes animals carrying objects with their jaws. While it is the standard term for this physical action, it is important to be aware that the same character is widely used as a highly offensive profanity in Cantonese. In everyday speech, context is usually sufficient to distinguish the literal meaning from the vulgar usage.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse the literal meaning of carrying something in the mouth with the extremely vulgar slang term that shares the same character. Using this word in a casual conversation about animals is perfectly fine, but avoid using it in any context where it could be misinterpreted as the profanity.
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.
