jiu1腰
Jyutpingjiu1
Yaleyīu
Definition
The waist; the area of the human body between the ribs and the hips.
colloquialbodyhealth
How it's used
Refers specifically to the anatomical region between the ribs and the hips. It is frequently used in contexts involving physical discomfort, such as back pain or fatigue from standing. When describing someone's figure, it often pairs with descriptors like 幼 to highlight a slim silhouette.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
Her waist is very slim, she looks great in a skirt.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to refer to the entire back. While English speakers might say lower back pain, Cantonese speakers use 腰痛 specifically for the waist area, whereas back pain in general is usually referred to as 背痛.
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.
