ngan1 sau3奀瘦
Jyutpingngan1 sau3
Yalengān sau
Definition
Skinny and small; thin, lean, and diminutive.
colloquialbodydescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on a frail or sickly kind of thinness rather than a healthy or athletic slimness. It often carries a slightly sympathetic or concerned tone, implying the person is lacking in strength or nutrition. You will frequently hear it used to describe children or people who look like they need to eat more.
Examples
Why are you so thin?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is fit or toned. It specifically implies a lack of bulk or muscle mass that might be perceived as weak or underdeveloped.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
