aa2 zi2 sik6 wong4 lin4啞子食黃蓮哑子食黄莲
Jyutpingaa2 zi2 sik6 wong4 lin4
Yaleá jí sihk wòhng lìhn
Definition
To suffer in silence, unable to speak out about one's bitter grievances.
colloquialemotionother
How it's used
This idiom relies on the imagery of a mute person who cannot articulate the intense bitterness of the medicinal plant Huanglian. It describes a situation where someone is forced to endure hardship or injustice without the ability or opportunity to complain or explain their circumstances to others. It carries a heavy sense of frustration and helplessness.
Examples
He keeps his suffering to himself; it is truly like a mute eating bitter herbs.
If you do not speak up, how is that any different from suffering in silence?
Related words
Common phrases
truly suffering in silence
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general way to say someone is quiet, but it specifically requires a context of hidden suffering or an inability to voice a grievance.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
