keoi1軀躯
Jyutpingkeoi1
Yalekēui
Definition
The human body or physical form.
colloquialbody
How it's used
This word functions primarily as a bound morpheme in modern Cantonese, rarely appearing as a standalone noun in casual speech. It carries a slightly more formal or literary weight compared to common terms like 身體 or 身. You will most frequently encounter it in compound words that emphasize the physical form or the shell of a person.
Examples
His whole body is covered in sweat, go take a shower quickly.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common noun and try to use it in place of 身體 in everyday sentences, which can sound unnatural or overly dramatic. It is best to stick to 身體 or 身 for general conversation unless you are specifically using a set phrase like 軀殼.
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.
