waa1窪洼
Jyutpingwaa1
Yalewā
Definition
A low-lying area, depression, swamp, or pit.
colloquialnatureplaces
How it's used
Refers specifically to a concave area or a low-lying patch of ground that collects water. While it can describe natural terrain, it is frequently used to point out hazardous dips or potholes in urban infrastructure. It carries a slightly more descriptive or literary tone than the common word 窿, which is used for generic holes.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
There is a big depression in the road, be careful not to step in it.
This place used to be a swamp, it floods easily when it rains.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 窿, but 窪 implies a broad, shallow depression or basin rather than a deep, narrow hole. Using it to describe a small hole in a wall or a pocket would sound unnatural.
Grammar color guide
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Adjective
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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.
