hau2口
Jyutpinghau2
Yaleháu
Definition
Mouth of a person or animal; also an opening, entrance, or gateway.
- mouth (of a person or animal)
- an opening, entrance, or exit connecting the inside to the outside
- a checkpoint, pass, or gateway
colloquialbody
How it's used
Beyond the literal anatomical meaning, this word is frequently used to describe someone's speech habits or attitude. Calling someone 口臭 implies they use foul or offensive language, while describing someone as 口密 suggests they are good at keeping secrets. It is also the standard term for the opening of containers or narrow passages.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He opened his mouth wide to eat.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 嘴, which is also used for mouth. While 口 is more anatomical and general, 嘴 often emphasizes the lips or the act of speaking, and is commonly used in phrases describing personality traits like 嘴甜 or 嘴硬.
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.
