cau3 mei6 soeng1 tau4臭味相投
Definition
Birds of a feather; having similar hobbies, interests, or styles, and getting along well with each other.
How it's used
Despite the literal meaning referring to a foul smell, this idiom is frequently used in a playful or slightly self-deprecating way to describe friends who share a specific, often mischievous or niche interest. It carries a stronger connotation of being partners in crime compared to neutral terms like 志同道合. While it can be used to criticize people who share bad habits, it is just as common among close friends to describe their own compatible personalities.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 志同道合, but 志同道合 is generally positive and implies shared noble goals or serious interests, whereas 臭味相投 often implies a shared quirk or questionable behavior.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
