taap3

Jyutpingtaap3
Yaletaap

Definition

Sloppy, untidy, or careless.

colloquialdescriptionspeople

How it's used

Often used in the reduplicated form 遢遢 to emphasize a lack of attention to detail or general sloppiness. It carries a slightly critical tone when describing someone's work habits or personal appearance. While it can describe physical messiness, it is equally common when criticizing someone for being sloppy or unmethodical in their tasks.

Examples

Don't be so careless with your work, check it clearly first.
He is a very untidy person, he never cleans his room.

Common phrases

sloppy or untidy
to do work in a slipshod manner

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with 邋遢, which specifically refers to being dirty or unhygienic. While 遢 can imply being untidy, 邋遢 is the standard term for physical filth or poor personal hygiene.

Grammar color guide

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