gwai2 waak6 fu4鬼畫符鬼画符
Jyutpinggwai2 waak6 fu4
Yalegwái waahk fùh
Definition
Illegible handwriting; messy scribble that is difficult to read.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to handwriting that is so messy or chaotic that it resembles the cryptic symbols found on Taoist talismans. It carries a strong sense of frustration or mockery, often used when someone is struggling to decipher a doctor's prescription or a child's early attempts at writing. It is rarely used to describe one's own writing unless one is being self-deprecating.
Measure word
deoi1堆dēuiExamples
His handwriting is like a mess of scribbles, I cannot understand it at all.
Related words
Common phrases
to write in a completely illegible manner
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe abstract art or actual religious talismans, as the term is strictly reserved for criticizing poor, unreadable human handwriting.
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.
