caat3 haai4 gau2擦鞋狗
Jyutpingcaat3 haai4 gau2
Yalechaat hàaih gáu
Definition
A sycophant, brown-noser, or ass-licker.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Focuses on the performative nature of flattery in workplace or social hierarchies. It carries a strong sense of contempt for someone who sacrifices their dignity for personal gain. While the literal meaning refers to shoe shining, the term is strictly used as a derogatory label for a sycophant.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
He is always acting like a sycophant, it is so annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
to act like a sycophant
Common mistake
Avoid using this in professional or formal settings, as it is a highly offensive insult that can easily lead to serious conflict.
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.
