zyu1珠
Jyutpingzyu1
Yalejyū
Definition
A bead, pearl, or any small round object.
colloquialother
How it's used
While 珠 refers to a bead or a small spherical object, it is most commonly encountered in compound words like 珍珠 or 汗珠. It functions primarily as a bound morpheme rather than a standalone noun in everyday speech. When referring to a single bead, speakers almost always use the classifier 粒 to clarify its size and shape.
Measure word
nap1粒nāpExamples
There are a few beads of sweat on his forehead.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse 珠 with 圓, as 圓 describes the shape itself rather than the physical object. Also, avoid using 珠 to refer to balls used in sports, as those are typically called 波.
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.
