mou4巫
Definition
Witchcraft, occult, or supernatural power, usually with negative or dark connotations.
How it's used
Rarely used as a standalone noun in modern spoken Cantonese, it almost exclusively appears as a prefix in compound words related to magic or the occult. It carries a strong connotation of ancient, mysterious, or potentially malevolent practices rather than modern stage magic or fantasy entertainment. When referring to a witch, 巫婆 is the standard term, though it can sometimes be used as a derogatory label for an unpleasant older woman.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 魔, which is more commonly used for general evil, demons, or modern fantasy magic. Using 巫 in casual conversation might sound overly dramatic or archaic unless you are specifically discussing folklore or supernatural themes.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
