haa6 bat1下筆下笔
Jyutpinghaa6 bat1
Yalehah bāt
Definition
To start writing or painting; to put pen to paper.
writtendaily actionsother
How it's used
下筆 is primarily a formal or written term that describes the physical act of putting pen to paper or the mental process of beginning a composition. In casual daily speech, native speakers almost exclusively use 落筆 instead. It carries a slightly more deliberate or artistic nuance compared to the more mechanical sounding 落筆.
Examples
This essay is so hard to write, I've been thinking for a long time and don't know how to start.
Are you ready? You can start drawing now.
Related words
Common phrases
hard to find a starting point for writing
Common mistake
Learners often use this word in casual conversation where it sounds overly formal or stiff. Stick to 落筆 when talking to friends or family to sound more natural.
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.
