syu4殳
Jyutpingsyu4
Yalesyùh
Definition
An ancient spear-like weapon, or a Chinese surname.
- archaican ancient spear-like weapon made of bamboo or bronze
- the Chinese surname Shu
writtenpeopleother
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively encountered as a surname or in historical contexts referring to ancient weaponry. It is not a word used in everyday spoken Cantonese, and most native speakers would need to clarify its pronunciation when introducing themselves. It is rarely used as a standalone noun outside of academic or historical discussions.
Examples
His surname is Shu, it is very rare to see this surname.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this character for the radical found in words like 投 or 設, but it is a distinct character with its own specific meaning and reading.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
