lau4 kau4琉球
Jyutpinglau4 kau4
Yalelàuh kàuh
Definition
Ryukyu, the ancient name for Okinawa.
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How it's used
Refers specifically to the historical Ryukyu Kingdom, which encompasses the modern-day Okinawa Prefecture. While locals almost exclusively use 沖繩 in everyday conversation, 琉球 is still used in historical, cultural, or academic contexts. Using this term can evoke a sense of nostalgia or emphasize the unique cultural identity of the islands separate from mainland Japan.
Examples
Ryukyu used to be an independent kingdom.
Have you ever traveled to Ryukyu?
Related words
Grammar color guide
Noun
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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.
