sau3 soek3瘦削
Jyutpingsau3 soek3
Yalesau seuk
Definition
Very thin; bony; gaunt.
neutralbodydescriptions
How it's used
Focuses on a lack of flesh that makes bones prominent, often implying a somewhat unhealthy or haggard appearance. It carries a more descriptive and slightly literary weight compared to the everyday word 瘦, which is neutral. Use it when you want to emphasize a sharp, angular, or frail look rather than just a slim build.
Examples
His face is so gaunt that it is sunken in.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply fit or slim, as it implies a lack of vitality or excessive thinness. It is not a compliment.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
