got3 / ho1嶱
Jyutpinggot3 / ho1
Yalegot / hō
Definition
A character used in ancient geographic names, or referring to mountainous terrain.
colloquialnaturedescriptions
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively used in spoken Cantonese to describe terrain that is sharply inclined or precipitous. It carries a sense of physical difficulty or danger when navigating such paths. While it is a specific descriptor for steepness, it is rarely seen in formal writing and is mostly encountered in casual conversation about hiking or difficult terrain.
Examples
This mountain is so steep, my legs are weak from hiking.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the more common adjective 陡, which is used in Mandarin and formal written Chinese. While 陡 is understood in Hong Kong, 嶱 is the authentic, colloquial way to describe a steep incline in spoken Cantonese.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
