paau3 zuk1炮竹
Jyutpingpaau3 zuk1
Yalepaau jūk
Definition
Firecrackers
colloquialfestival
How it's used
Refers specifically to the traditional long strings of firecrackers used during celebrations to ward off evil spirits. While the term is understood by everyone, it is increasingly common to hear people use 爆竹 instead, especially in formal or written contexts. The act of setting them off is almost always described with the verb 放.
Measure word
cyun3串chyunExamples
Setting off firecrackers during the New Year is very loud.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with fireworks which are generally referred to as 煙花. Firecrackers are specifically the small, explosive type that produce a loud popping sound in a sequence, whereas fireworks are the larger aerial displays.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
