paau3趵
Jyutpingpaau3
Yalepaau
Definition
To jump, or the noise of tramping feet.
colloquialdaily actionsanimals
How it's used
Used primarily in the reduplicated form 趵趵 to describe the rhythmic, repetitive motion of jumping or the sound of heavy footsteps. It carries a playful or descriptive tone often associated with children or small animals. It is rarely used as a single character verb in modern spoken Cantonese.
Examples
The rabbit is hopping around.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 跳, which is the standard, neutral verb for jumping. Using 趵 in a formal context or as a direct replacement for 跳 will sound unnatural or overly descriptive.
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.
