sau3 gwat1 leon4 seon1瘦骨嶙峋
Jyutpingsau3 gwat1 leon4 seon1
Yalesau gwāt lèuhn sēun
Definition
Bony and extremely thin; all skin and bones with skeletal features prominent.
colloquialbodydescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong, vivid visual imagery of protruding bones due to extreme emaciation. It is typically used to describe someone or something that appears unhealthy, malnourished, or neglected, rather than just naturally thin. Because of its descriptive intensity, it can sound quite blunt or even harsh if used to describe a person directly to their face.
Examples
He has been sick for a long time and looks all skin and bones.
The stray cat is skin and bones, it is so pitiful.
Related words
Common phrases
a gaunt figure
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a neutral way to say someone is slim. Avoid using it for people who are simply fit or slender, as it implies a state of being gaunt or sickly.
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.
