ze1 cau2遮醜遮丑
Jyutpingze1 cau2
Yalejē cháu
Definition
To hide or cover up one's defects, faults, or shortcomings.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that the person is trying to hide something embarrassing or shameful rather than just a minor imperfection. It is frequently used in contexts where someone is overcompensating for a lack of ability or a social faux pas. The focus is on the act of covering up a perceived inadequacy to save face.
Examples
She wears such thick makeup, is she trying to hide her flaws?
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with general verbs for hiding objects like 收藏 or 隱藏. Remember that 遮醜 specifically refers to covering up personal shortcomings, flaws, or embarrassing situations, not physical items.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.



