taan2袒
Jyutpingtaan2
Yaletáan
Definition
To bare or expose a part of the body; to shield or favor someone.
- to bare or expose a part of the body
- literaryto shield, protect, or favor someone
neutralbodypeople
How it's used
Primarily appears in compound words rather than as a standalone verb in modern speech. It carries a sense of revealing something that should ideally be covered or protected, whether it is physical skin or a metaphorical bias in favor of someone.
Examples
His shirt is too small, exposing his chest and arms is so embarrassing.
Don't be biased towards your own people, you should be fairer.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 露, which is the general verb for showing or revealing. Use 袒 specifically when referring to the chest area or when describing a biased attitude towards someone.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
