fu1敷
Jyutpingfu1
Yalefū
Definition
To apply medicine, ointment, or a compress onto the skin.
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How it's used
Primarily used for medicinal or cosmetic treatments where a substance is left on the skin for a period of time. It implies a passive process where the substance rests on the surface rather than being rubbed in like a lotion or cream. It is frequently used in the context of traditional Chinese medicine or skincare routines.
Examples
He hurt his foot and needs to apply medicine for a few days.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this for applying lotions, creams, or oils that are meant to be massaged into the skin, as those typically use the verb 搽.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.



