fu2 diu1 diu1苦刁刁
Jyutpingfu2 diu1 diu1
Yalefú dīu dīu
Definition
Very bitter.
colloquialfooddescriptions
How it's used
This reduplicated adjective emphasizes an intense, unpleasant bitterness that lingers on the tongue. It is specifically reserved for tastes, unlike the more general term 苦 which can describe abstract concepts like life or hardship. Using the suffix 刁刁 adds a vivid, sensory quality that makes the description feel more visceral and immediate.
Examples
This cup of medicine is super bitter, drink it up quickly.
Why is the herbal tea you brewed so incredibly bitter?
Related words
Common phrases
bitter medicine
bitter herbal tea
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe abstract bitterness like a difficult life or a sad experience, as it is strictly limited to physical taste. For metaphorical bitterness, stick to the simple 苦.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
