sau2 han4手痕
Jyutpingsau2 han4
Yalesáu hàhn
Definition
To have an itch to do something; to have a sudden, uncontrollable urge to touch, fiddle with, or do something.
colloquialdaily actionsemotion
How it's used
Literally meaning itchy hands, this expression describes a restless urge to touch, fiddle with, or interfere with things that should be left alone. It is frequently used to describe the impulse to buy unnecessary items or to tinker with gadgets when one is bored. The feeling is often framed as a lack of self control that leads to minor trouble.
Examples
Seeing the new phone, I really have an itch to buy it.
Why did you have to mess with it, now the model is completely broken?
Related words
Common phrases
have an itch to buy something
fiddling with things out of boredom
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal physical sensation of having itchy skin on your hands. While it can describe a physical itch, the metaphorical usage is far more common in daily speech to describe impulsive behavior.
Grammar color guide
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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.
