zau2 tau4走頭走头
Jyutpingzau2 tau4
Yalejáu tàuh
Definition
To flee or escape; to run away to another place as quickly as possible.
colloquialdaily actions
How it's used
Often used in urgent or dangerous situations, this term carries a sense of desperation or immediate necessity to get away. It is more vivid and informal than the standard escape verb 逃走. You will frequently hear it used when someone is trying to evade responsibility or avoid a confrontation.
Examples
Seeing the police coming, they fled immediately.
When a fire breaks out, you must escape immediately!
Related words
Common phrases
at the end of one's rope
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 走頭路, which is a set phrase meaning to reach a dead end or to have no other options left. Using 走頭 on its own is strictly for the act of fleeing.
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.
