wai3穢秽
Jyutpingwai3
Yalewai
Definition
Dirty, filthy, or unclean; also used figuratively to mean immoral, vulgar, or obscene.
- dirty; filthy; unclean
- figurativeimmoral; low; vulgar; obscene
writtendescriptions
How it's used
Functions primarily as a formal or literary morpheme rather than a standalone adjective in modern speech. It carries a stronger, more visceral sense of moral or physical corruption compared to the everyday word 污糟. You will most frequently encounter it in compound words that describe something deeply repulsive or morally bankrupt.
Examples
This place is really dirty, let's leave quickly.
He speaks so obscenely, he is really rude.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using it as a direct substitute for 污糟 in casual conversation, as it sounds overly formal or even archaic. It is better suited for written contexts or when emphasizing a sense of moral impurity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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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.
