goek3 gan1腳跟脚跟
Jyutpinggoek3 gan1
Yalegeuk gān
Definition
Heel; the back part of the foot below the ankle.
neutralbody
How it's used
While 腳跟 is the standard written term, it is rarely used in casual spoken Cantonese. Most locals will instinctively use 腳踭 instead. Using 腳跟 in conversation can sound slightly formal or clinical, similar to using anatomical terms in English.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
He doesn't let his heels touch the ground when he walks.
Related words
Common phrases
heel pain
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 腳跟 in daily conversation, which can make them sound like they are reading from a textbook. Stick to 腳踭 for everyday life to sound more natural.
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.
