we2 liu6搲料
Jyutpingwe2 liu6
Yalewé liuh
Definition
To go around gathering information, materials, or news.
colloquialworkcommunication
How it's used
Originating from the Cantonese verb 搲 meaning to scratch or scrape, this term implies a sense of effort or digging to obtain information that is not readily available. It is commonly used in professional or investigative contexts where someone is actively hunting for leads or inside news. The tone is informal and suggests a proactive, sometimes slightly sneaky, approach to information gathering.
Examples
He is always going around to different departments to gather information.
Related words
Common phrases
to go around everywhere gathering information
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 搲撈, which refers to looking for work or job opportunities. While both involve the verb 搲, they target different outcomes.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
