tai2體体
Jyutpingtai2
Yaletái
Definition
The whole or part of a human or animal body, or a style, format, or layout.
- the body of a human or animal
- style; format; layout; template
neutralbodydescriptions
How it's used
Functions primarily as a bound morpheme in Cantonese rather than a standalone noun for body. It appears frequently in compound words related to physical health, structure, or abstract systems. When referring to the human body as a whole, Cantonese speakers almost exclusively use 身體 instead of just 體.
Examples
He exercises all the time, his physique is very strong.
What do you think of the overall feel of this design?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often try to use 體 as a standalone word for body, but it sounds incomplete or overly literary in most spoken contexts. Always use 身體 when talking about a person's physical health or anatomy.
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.
