tau1偷
Jyutpingtau1
Yaletāu
Definition
To steal or pilfer.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Beyond the literal act of theft, this verb is frequently used in the phrase 偷懶 to describe someone slacking off or cutting corners at work. It carries a strong negative moral weight and is rarely used in a playful sense unless specifically referring to sneaking a look at something.
Examples
He is always stealing other people's things, it's very low class.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 搶, which implies using force or violence to take something. 偷 specifically refers to taking something secretly without the owner noticing.
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.
