baan6 lou5 sing2扮老醒
Jyutpingbaan6 lou5 sing2
Yalebaahn lóuh síng
Definition
To act as if one is very smart and knows it all.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This expression carries a strong negative connotation of arrogance and condescension. It is specifically used to describe someone who pretends to be an expert or gives unsolicited advice to show off their perceived superiority. Unlike simply being smart, this implies the person is actually lacking knowledge or is being insufferable in their delivery.
Examples
He is always acting like a know-it-all, it is really annoying.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being smart or knowledgeable. It is strictly used to criticize someone's attitude, so using it to describe a genuine expert who is being helpful would be offensive.
Grammar color guide
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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.
