jau1 sau3優秀优秀
Jyutpingjau1 sau3
Yaleyāu sau
Definition
Outstanding; excellent; of a high standard and performing exceptionally well.
neutraldescriptionspeople
How it's used
This word is primarily used in formal or academic contexts to describe high achievement or quality. While it is perfectly understood in conversation, native speakers often prefer more casual descriptors like 好勁 or 叻 when praising someone in daily life. It carries a sense of professional or institutional recognition rather than just personal skill.
Examples
He is an outstanding student.
Who do you think performed the best?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often overuse this word in casual settings where it sounds slightly stiff or overly complimentary. It is better reserved for formal reports, job applications, or evaluating academic performance.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
