sau1

Jyutpingsau1
Yalesāu

Definition

Seedling.

writtennature

How it's used

Refers specifically to young plants that have just sprouted from seeds. While technically accurate, it is a relatively formal or literary term that is rarely heard in casual, everyday Hong Kong speech. Most locals would simply use 苗 or 幼苗 instead.

Measure word

fo2

Examples

These seedlings are growing very nicely.
How many seedlings did you buy to plant?

Related words

Common phrases

to plant seedlings

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 條, which is a common measure word or noun for long, thin objects. Using 蓨 in casual conversation might sound overly academic or poetic to a native speaker.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector