ban2 san4 gam2 seng1稟神咁聲禀神咁声
Jyutpingban2 san4 gam2 seng1
Yalebán sàhn gám sēng
Definition
To complain, grumble, or murmur incessantly.
colloquialemotionslang
How it's used
This expression draws a vivid comparison to the rhythmic, low, and repetitive chanting of prayers or offerings, which to an outsider can sound like endless mumbling or whining. It is used exclusively to describe someone who is expressing dissatisfaction in a persistent, low-energy, or annoying way. It carries a strong sense of impatience from the speaker, implying that the person complaining is being tedious rather than genuinely seeking a solution.
Examples
Why are you always grumbling like that?
He is complaining again, it is really annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
always grumbling
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is actually praying or performing a religious ritual, as that would be highly disrespectful and confusing. It is strictly a figurative, derogatory term for someone who is venting or complaining incessantly.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
