hau2 kyut3口訣口诀
Jyutpinghau2 kyut3
Yaleháu kyut
Definition
A mnemonic, formula, or rhyming verse that helps one memorize key instructions or the gist of a method.
colloquialdaily actionscommunication
How it's used
Often used to describe catchy, rhythmic phrases that summarize complex procedures or rules into a few simple words. While it literally refers to memorization aids, it is frequently used in daily life to refer to any 'insider tips' or 'shortcuts' for performing a task efficiently. The phrasing is usually concise and designed to be recited aloud.
Measure word
geoi3句geuiExamples
Do you have any tips or formulas to teach me how to cook this dish?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 竅門, which refers more broadly to the 'trick' or 'knack' of doing something. While a 口訣 can be a 竅門, a 竅門 does not necessarily have to be a verbal formula or a set of rhyming words.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
