hau2 cau3口臭
Jyutpinghau2 cau3
Yaleháu chau
Definition
Bad breath or halitosis.
colloquialbodyhealth
How it's used
Directly pointing out someone has 口臭 is considered very rude and socially insensitive in Hong Kong culture. It is usually discussed behind someone's back or hinted at very indirectly by offering a mint or gum. The term is also used metaphorically to describe someone who frequently uses foul or offensive language.
Examples
He has really bad breath when he speaks.
Did you eat a lot of garlic? You have a bit of bad breath.
Related words
Common phrases
to have bad breath
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a general bad smell in a room or from an object, as it specifically refers to the breath coming from a person's mouth.
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.
