maau1 naa2貓乸猫乸
Jyutpingmaau1 naa2
Yalemāau ná
Definition
A female cat.
colloquialanimals
How it's used
Adding 乸 to an animal name is the standard way to specify that it is female. It is used for many animals, such as 狗乸 or 雞乸, and is perfectly neutral rather than derogatory. When referring to humans, however, using 乸 is extremely offensive and should be strictly avoided.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
That female cat really likes to sleep at home.
Do you know where there are female cats for adoption?
Related words
Common phrases
adopt a female cat
Common mistake
Do not use 乸 to describe women, as it is highly insulting and derogatory in that context. Stick to using it only for animals to avoid causing offense.
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.
