paau2跑
Jyutpingpaau2
Yalepáau
Definition
To run; to move your legs faster than walking so that both feet leave the ground.
Example
ngo5我mui5每jat6日heoi3去paau2跑bou6步。
I jog every day.
colloquialdaily actionssports
How it's used
Focus on the physical act of running rather than the abstract concept of movement. Use it when describing someone moving quickly on foot, but avoid it when talking about vehicles or machinery, where other verbs like 揸 or 行 are more appropriate. It is frequently paired with directional complements to specify the destination or the manner of movement.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it to describe the movement of a car or bus, as that is strictly reserved for vehicles. Learners often mistakenly use it for any fast movement, but it specifically requires the physical action of human or animal legs.
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.
