guk1 gu1唂咕
Definition
Cocoa; a drink made from cocoa powder and water, similar to hot chocolate and typically served in Hong Kong-style cafes.
How it's used
This term is a direct phonetic loan from the English word cocoa, reflecting the historical influence of Western-style cafes in Hong Kong. It is specifically used to describe the drink served in cha chaan teng settings, which is often distinct from the thicker, more premium hot chocolate found in modern coffee chains. You will almost exclusively hear this used in the context of ordering drinks at a local diner.
Measure word
bui1杯būiExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 朱古力, which is the general term for chocolate. While they are often used interchangeably in casual speech, 唂咕 specifically refers to the hot drink served in a cafe, whereas 朱古力 is used for the solid candy or the flavor profile in general.
Grammar color guide
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.
