niu5 sau3鳥獸鸟兽
Jyutpingniu5 sau3
Yaleníuh sau
Definition
Birds and beasts; land animals in general.
writtenanimalsnature
How it's used
This term is primarily used in formal or literary contexts to describe wildlife collectively. It is rarely used in casual daily conversation, where people would simply say 動物. It carries a slightly archaic or descriptive tone often found in nature documentaries or written prose.
Measure word
kwan4群kwànhExamples
This place used to be a gathering spot for birds and beasts.
Do you see any birds or beasts appearing over there?
Related words
Common phrases
scatter in all directions like birds and beasts
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this as a direct synonym for any animal. It specifically evokes the imagery of wild, untamed creatures in nature rather than pets or livestock.
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.
