zek3 gwat1脊骨
Jyutpingzek3 gwat1
Yalejek gwāt
Definition
The spine or vertebral column, or an individual vertebra bone.
- spine; backbone; vertebral column
- vertebra; an individual bone of the spine
neutralbodyhealth
How it's used
Refers specifically to the anatomical structure of the spine, whereas the more common term 背脊 is used for the entire back area of the body. When talking about the individual bones that make up the column, speakers often use 脊椎骨 instead. It is frequently used in medical contexts or when discussing posture and physical pain.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
If your sitting posture is bad, you can easily injure your spine.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using 脊骨 to refer to the fleshy part of the back, as it strictly denotes the bone structure. Use 背脊 for the general area of the back.
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.



