ho4 baau1荷包
Jyutpingho4 baau1
Yalehòh bāau
Definition
Wallet or purse; a small pouch or bag used to hold money and coins.
colloquialmoneyshopping
How it's used
Refers specifically to a small pouch or wallet for carrying cash and coins. It is frequently used metaphorically to discuss one's financial situation or budget, similar to how English speakers use the word wallet to represent personal wealth.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
My purse is empty, I am not going tonight.
Your purse fell on the ground, pick it up quickly.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the Mandarin term 錢包, which is also understood in Hong Kong but carries a slightly more modern or generic connotation compared to the more traditional feel of 荷包.
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.
