wu1 wai3污穢污秽
Jyutpingwu1 wai3
Yalewū wai
Definition
Filthy, foul, or morally depraved.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While this word can describe physical dirtiness, it is most frequently used to describe someone's character, speech, or thoughts as morally corrupt or lewd. It carries a strong sense of moral judgment and disgust, making it much harsher than simply saying someone is messy or unhygienic. It is often used to criticize people who make inappropriate sexual jokes or harbor malicious intentions.
Examples
He is such a filthy person, always thinking up twisted logic.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe a messy room or dirty clothes, as 污糟 is the standard colloquial term for physical filth. Using 污穢 for a dirty shirt sounds overly dramatic or literary, as if the shirt itself is morally tainted.
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.
