tuk1 bat1禿筆秃笔
Jyutpingtuk1 bat1
Yaletūk bāt
Definition
A worn-out writing brush or pen, or a self-deprecating term for one's own poor writing ability.
- worn-out writing brush or pen; blunt pen
- literaryone's own poor writing ability
colloquialdescriptionsother
How it's used
Refers literally to a worn out brush or a pen that has lost its point, but is frequently used metaphorically to mock someone's poor calligraphy or writing style. It carries a slightly derogatory or humorous tone when describing a person's lack of literary talent. In modern daily life, it is also commonly used to describe a pen that has simply run out of ink or is physically damaged.
Measure word
zi1支jīExamples
His handwriting is like a blunt pen, I cannot understand it at all.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the term 禿頭 which refers to a bald person. While both share the character 禿, the former is specifically about the tip of a writing instrument or the quality of writing, whereas the latter is strictly about hair loss.
Grammar color guide
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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.
