sam1 ou3深奧深奥
Jyutpingsam1 ou3
Yalesām ou
Definition
Abstruse, profound, or recondite.
neutraldescriptionsschool
How it's used
Use this term to describe academic theories, philosophical concepts, or complex arguments that require significant background knowledge to grasp. It implies a level of intellectual density that goes beyond simple difficulty, often suggesting that the material is intentionally or inherently obscure. While it can be used in casual conversation, it carries a slightly formal or intellectual weight compared to just saying something is 難明.
Examples
The content of this book is too abstruse, I cannot understand it.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe physical objects or simple tasks that are just hard to do. It is strictly reserved for abstract ideas, texts, or theories, so calling a difficult video game level 深奧 would sound unnatural.
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.
