zaau2爪
Jyutpingzaau2
Yalejáau
Definition
Claw, paw, or talon of an animal, equivalent to a hand or foot, often with long sharp nails.
colloquialanimalsbody
How it's used
Refers specifically to the feet or claws of animals, often used to describe the sharp nails themselves or the entire paw. When discussing the act of grabbing or scratching with these, the verb 抓 is used, which shares the same character in written form but functions differently in a sentence structure.
Measure word
zek3隻jekRelated words
Common mistake
Avoid using 爪 to refer to human hands or feet, as it is strictly reserved for animals; using it for people sounds derogatory or dehumanizing.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
