ziu1 tou2焦土
Jyutpingziu1 tou2
Yalejīu tóu
Definition
Scorched earth; land blackened by fire, describing the ruined state of buildings and crops after a war.
colloquialnaturework
How it's used
Beyond its literal meaning of land destroyed by fire, this term is frequently used metaphorically in political or business contexts. It describes a strategy where one party destroys all resources to prevent an opponent from gaining any advantage, even at the cost of their own long-term interests.
Examples
The big fire burned the whole hillside into scorched earth.
Are you trying to use a scorched earth policy to deal with your competitors?
Related words
Common phrases
scorched earth policy
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.
