tai2 ngau4睇牛
Jyutpingtai2 ngau4
Yaletái ngàuh
Definition
To herd or watch over cattle while they graze.
colloquialanimalsdaily actions
How it's used
Beyond the literal act of herding cattle, this term is frequently used metaphorically in Hong Kong to describe someone who is tasked with keeping a close eye on a person or a situation. It implies a sense of responsibility and patience, similar to how a shepherd must ensure the animals do not wander off. It is a very traditional, rural-rooted expression that feels quite nostalgic to modern city dwellers.
Examples
When my grandfather was young, he always had to herd cattle.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the slang term 睇水, which means to act as a lookout for illegal activities. While both involve watching, 睇牛 is about care and supervision, whereas 睇水 is specifically about monitoring for danger or police.
Grammar color guide
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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.
