sau1 sau6收受
Jyutpingsau1 sau6
Yalesāu sauh
Definition
To receive, take, or accept.
writtenworkmoney
How it's used
Formal contexts are where this term primarily lives, often appearing in legal or journalistic reports regarding corruption or illicit gains. It carries a heavier, more serious weight than the everyday word 收, which is neutral and used for standard receiving of items or mail. Using it in casual conversation about receiving a birthday present or a parcel would sound stiff and unnatural.
Examples
He accepted many gifts that he shouldn't have.
How could you accept this money of unknown origin?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use it as a direct synonym for receiving any object, but it implies a sense of transaction or acceptance of something potentially improper. Stick to 收 or 攞 for daily interactions to avoid sounding like a lawyer or a news anchor.
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.
