fuk1 ji5 mo1 saa1福爾摩沙福尔摩沙
Jyutpingfuk1 ji5 mo1 saa1
Yalefūk yíh mō sā
Definition
Formosa; a historical European name for Taiwan, meaning "beautiful island".
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How it's used
Historical records show this name was originally used by Portuguese sailors to describe the island of Taiwan as beautiful. It is now primarily used in literary, historical, or poetic contexts rather than in everyday conversation to refer to the modern state. Using this term often evokes a sense of nostalgia or emphasizes the island's natural beauty.
Examples
Formosa is what Europeans used to call Taiwan in the past.
Do you know why Taiwan is called Formosa?
Related words
Common phrases
Formosa Island
Grammar color guide
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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.
