aa2 zai2 sik6 wong4 lin4啞仔食黃蓮哑仔食黄莲
Definition
To suffer in silence or have grievances one cannot speak of.
How it's used
This is a classic Cantonese xiehouyu, or two part allegorical saying, where the first part sets up a vivid image and the second part delivers the meaning. It is rarely used in full in casual speech, as listeners immediately understand the implication of the first half. It carries a sense of helplessness or being trapped in a situation where explaining your pain would be futile or impossible.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not attempt to translate the literal meaning of eating coptis seeds to a non Cantonese speaker, as they will not understand the cultural metaphor. Ensure you only use this when the person suffering truly has no way to voice their grievance, rather than just someone who is choosing to be quiet.
Grammar color guide
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.
