joeng4 naa2羊乸
Jyutpingjoeng4 naa2
Yaleyèuhng ná
Definition
Female goat, ewe, or doe.
colloquialanimals
How it's used
The suffix 乸 is a productive way to denote female animals in Cantonese. It is often used for livestock or farm animals, but using it for humans is considered highly derogatory and offensive. When referring to animals, it is a neutral and common way to specify gender.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
That female goat gave birth to two baby goats.
Related words
Common mistake
Never use 乸 to describe a woman, as it is a severe insult that dehumanizes the person by comparing them to an animal. Stick to using it only for non-human creatures.
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.
