haam4 haam4 cau3 cau3鹹鹹臭臭咸咸臭臭
Jyutpinghaam4 haam4 cau3 cau3
Yalehàahm hàahm chau chau
Definition
Smell of sweat or perspiration; salty and smelly.
colloquialbodydescriptions
How it's used
This reduplicated adjective is used specifically to describe the pungent, salty odor of dried sweat on clothing or skin. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often used when complaining about poor hygiene or the aftermath of intense physical activity. Unlike generic words for smell, this emphasizes the specific salty quality of perspiration.
Examples
His shirt smells like sweat, take it to wash quickly.
My whole body smells like sweat after exercising, it is so uncomfortable.
Related words
Common phrases
smelling of sweat all over one's body
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe pleasant or neutral smells, as it is strictly reserved for unpleasant body odors. It is also not used for food, even if the food is salty or pungent.
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.
