maa5 lau1馬騮马骝
Jyutpingmaa5 lau1
Yalemáh lāu
Definition
Monkey; a primate with nimble limbs and typically a tail.
colloquialanimals
How it's used
Refers specifically to monkeys in a casual, everyday context. It is frequently used metaphorically to describe children who are hyperactive or restless, similar to calling someone a little monkey in English. While it is the standard term in speech, it is less formal than the term 猴子 found in written Chinese.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There are many monkeys in the zoo.
Related words
Common phrases
Kam Shan (a location in Hong Kong known for wild monkeys)
Common mistake
Avoid using this term in formal or scientific writing, as it is strictly colloquial. It should not be used to refer to apes, as the distinction between monkeys and apes is generally maintained in more formal contexts.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
