mo1 zaau2魔爪
Jyutpingmo1 zaau2
Yalemō jáau
Definition
The devil's talons or claws, often used figuratively to describe a powerful evil force or influence.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This term is almost exclusively used in a metaphorical sense to describe the reach of corrupting or dangerous influences. It carries a dramatic, almost cinematic tone, often appearing in news reports or serious discussions about crime, exploitation, or systemic corruption. It is rarely used to describe actual physical hands or claws.
Measure word
deoi3對deuiExamples
Don't let his evil influence reach into the school.
Their evil tentacles have finally reached that company.
Related words
Common phrases
to extend one's evil reach
to escape from the clutches of evil
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this to describe a literal physical injury or a scary animal, but it is strictly reserved for abstract, negative social or moral forces.
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.
