wong4 tou2黃土黄土
Jyutpingwong4 tou2
Yalewòhng tóu
Definition
Loess; a porous, yellowish, silty sediment deposited by wind, primarily in dry mid-latitude regions.
neutralnature
How it's used
Refers specifically to a geological deposit rather than just any yellow-colored soil found in a garden or construction site. It is primarily used in academic, geographical, or historical contexts when discussing the landscape of Northern China. Because it is a technical term, you will rarely hear it in casual daily conversation unless the topic is specifically about geography or environmental science.
Examples
The loess here is very loose, be careful when walking.
Do you know how loess is formed?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general yellow soil or mud. Remember that it describes a specific type of wind-blown, porous sediment, not just any dirt that happens to be yellow in color.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
