jiu4橈桡
Jyutpingjiu4
Yaleyìuh
Definition
An oar or paddle.
writtentransport
How it's used
This term is primarily used in formal or literary contexts to describe the specific tool for rowing. In everyday spoken Cantonese, people almost exclusively use the word 船槳 to refer to an oar or paddle. Using 橈 in casual conversation will sound overly academic or archaic.
Measure word
zi1支jīExamples
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the character 撓 which is used in common phrases like 撓痕 meaning to scratch an itch. They are visually similar but semantically unrelated.
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.
