sau2 zuk1手足
Jyutpingsau2 zuk1
Yalesáu jūk
Definition
Arms and legs, or figuratively, siblings, brothers, and close friends.
- arms and legs; limbs
- figurativebrothers; siblings; close friends or comrades
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Beyond the literal meaning of limbs, this term is deeply rooted in the concept of brotherhood and camaraderie. It implies a bond of loyalty and shared struggle that goes beyond just being friends. In certain contexts, it carries a strong sense of solidarity among people who share the same values or political stance.
Examples
They are all very close brothers.
Related words
Common phrases
deep bond of brotherhood
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal anatomy of limbs in everyday conversation, as the metaphorical meaning of close comrades is far more common in social settings. Using it to describe actual body parts can sound overly formal or clinical.
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.
