ban6 tau4 ban6 nou5笨頭笨腦笨头笨脑
Jyutpingban6 tau4 ban6 nou5
Yalebahn tàuh bahn nóuh
Definition
Slow-witted, dull, or thick-headed.
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
This idiom carries a slightly humorous or affectionate tone when used among friends, rather than being purely insulting. It describes someone who lacks quick reflexes or common sense in a specific moment, rather than implying a permanent intellectual disability. It is often used to tease someone who has made a silly mistake or failed to grasp an obvious point.
Examples
He usually seems slow-witted, but who knew he would get first place in the exam.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone with a serious cognitive impairment, as it is strictly used for behavioral clumsiness or temporary lack of wit. It is also not interchangeable with 蠢, which is a more direct and potentially offensive way to call someone stupid.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
