luk1 ze3碌蔗
Jyutpingluk1 ze3
Yalelūk je
Definition
A foolish, useless, or stupid person.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Literally referring to a single stalk of sugarcane, this term paints a picture of someone who is stiff, unresponsive, or lacking in common sense. It is frequently used to describe someone who is physically awkward or standing around doing nothing useful. The imagery implies a lack of flexibility or intelligence, similar to how a rigid piece of wood or plant might be perceived.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
He is usually sharp, but he turns into a total fool whenever he sees his crush.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply quiet or shy, as the term carries a strong connotation of stupidity or being completely clueless. It is an insult, so avoid using it in professional settings or with people you do not know well.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
