tau1 dou6偷渡
Jyutpingtau1 dou6
Yaletāu douh
Definition
To illegally cross a border or enter a country, often by smuggling or stowing away.
neutralpeopleplaces
How it's used
Historically, this term is deeply tied to the wave of refugees fleeing to Hong Kong from the mainland during the mid-twentieth century. It carries a heavy, serious tone and is rarely used in casual or lighthearted contexts. While it can refer to smuggling goods in some contexts, it is most strongly associated with the act of human beings crossing borders without authorization.
Examples
They came to Hong Kong by illegal means back then.
Do you know how dangerous it is to enter a place illegally?
Related words
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
