hou2 cau1好抽
Jyutpinghou2 cau1
Yalehóu chāu
Definition
Good at fighting or combat.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Originally a term from Hong Kong action cinema and street culture, this describes someone with impressive combat skills or physical toughness. It is often used with a sense of surprise or admiration when someone who appears physically unimposing turns out to be formidable. Adding the particle 得 at the end, as in 好抽得, emphasizes the degree of their capability.
Examples
He looks so gentle, is he actually that good at fighting?
He used to be a boxer, he is really good at fighting.
Related words
Common phrases
very good at fighting
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 抽水, which means to take advantage of someone or to make sarcastic remarks. While both share the character 抽, they are completely unrelated in meaning.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
