zuk1燭烛
Jyutpingzuk1
Yalejūk
Definition
Candle.
colloquialhomefestival
How it's used
While 燭 can stand alone, it is almost always paired with 蠟 to form 蠟燭 in everyday speech. Using 燭 by itself often sounds slightly more poetic or literary, similar to how one might use 'taper' instead of 'candle' in English. When referring to the object itself, 蠟燭 is the standard term used by all speakers.
Measure word
zi1枝jīExamples
The power is out, hurry up and find a candle to light.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse 燭 with 燈, which refers to electric lamps or lights. If you are talking about a modern light source, 燈 is the correct word, whereas 燭 is strictly reserved for wax candles.
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.
