gau3搆
Jyutpinggau3
Yalegau
Definition
To implicate or drag someone into a matter.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
This term is primarily used in the context of dragging someone into trouble or a negative situation. It carries a strong sense of unwanted involvement, often implying that the person being dragged in is innocent or unwilling. It is frequently used in the phrase 搆落水, which literally means to drag someone into the water.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
to drag someone into trouble
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin word 勾, which can mean to hook or to collude. In Cantonese, 搆 is specifically used for the act of pulling someone into a difficult situation, whereas 勾 is rarely used in this specific sense.
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.
