zau6酎
Jyutpingzau6
Yalejauh
Definition
Strong, triple-brewed wine; tribute money paid to the emperor for sacrificial rites.
- literarystrong, triple-brewed wine
- archaictribute money paid to the emperor by feudal lords for sacrificial rites
dateddrink
How it's used
This character is almost exclusively encountered in classical texts or historical contexts rather than modern daily life. While it refers to specific types of strong, refined wine, it is rarely used in spoken Cantonese to describe alcohol today. Most speakers would prefer using 酒 or specific names like 烈酒 when discussing strong spirits.
Measure word
bui1杯būiExamples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common character due to its appearance in historical dramas, but using it in a casual conversation will sound extremely unnatural or archaic.
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.
