ziu1 coi4 maau1招財貓招财猫
Jyutpingziu1 coi4 maau1
Yalejīu chòih māau
Definition
Maneki-neko; a lucky cat figurine originating from Japan, typically made of ceramic and depicting a cat with a raised paw beckoning in good fortune.
colloquialother
How it's used
These figurines are ubiquitous in Hong Kong retail spaces, often placed near the cash register to attract business. While the traditional white version is most common, variations in color and the specific paw raised carry different symbolic meanings regarding health, love, or wealth. It is a cultural staple that transcends its Japanese origins to become a standard feature of local shop decor.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
There is a lucky cat placed at the shop entrance.
Are you buying a lucky cat to bring home some fortune?
Related words
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.
