fu6 nau2腐朽
Jyutpingfu6 nau2
Yalefuh náu
Definition
Rotten, decayed, or decomposed.
- rotten; decayed; decomposed
- figurativedegenerate; decadent; corrupt
writtendescriptionsnature
How it's used
Primarily describes organic materials like wood or plant matter that have broken down over time due to moisture or age. While it can be used metaphorically in formal writing to describe corrupt institutions or outdated ideas, it sounds quite literary and heavy in spoken Cantonese. For everyday items that have simply gone bad or spoiled, native speakers prefer using 爛 or 變質.
Examples
This wooden table has already completely rotted away.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe food that has gone off, as it sounds overly dramatic and unnatural. Use 變壞 or 臭咗 instead.
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.
