bin3 sik1 lung4變色龍变色龙
Jyutpingbin3 sik1 lung4
Yalebin sīk lùhng
Definition
Chameleon; a type of lizard that can change its skin color to match its environment.
colloquialanimalsdescriptions
How it's used
Beyond the literal biological meaning, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who is fickle, opportunistic, or constantly changes their stance to suit the people around them. It carries a negative connotation when applied to personality, implying a lack of integrity or a tendency to be a social climber.
Measure word
tiu4條tìuhExamples
Chameleons know how to change color according to the environment.
Have you seen that chameleon at the zoo yet?
Related words
Common phrases
chameleon-like personality
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the term 牆頭草, which also describes someone who changes sides easily but specifically refers to someone who follows the prevailing trend or power, whereas 變色龍 focuses more on the act of blending in or adapting one's persona.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
- Possession (嘅)How to say my, your, and his, and how to link a describing word to a noun, all with the little word 嘅 (ge3).
