ngau4 gung1牛公
Jyutpingngau4 gung1
Yalengàuh gūng
Definition
A bull or male ox.
colloquialanimals
How it's used
Distinguishing gender in animals is often done by adding 公 for males and 乸 for females after the animal name. While 牛 is the general term for cattle, using 牛公 specifically highlights the male sex, which is useful when discussing livestock or distinguishing between animals in a herd.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 公 for humans, as it sounds derogatory or like a caricature; use 男 for men instead. Also, note that for some animals, specific terms exist, so check if a more precise word is preferred over the generic animal name plus 公.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
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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.
