ceot1 gwai6出櫃出柜
Definition
To come out of the closet; to reveal one's non-mainstream identity, especially as LGBT.
How it's used
This term is a direct calque from English, yet it has become the standard way to describe the act of revealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity in Hong Kong. It carries a sense of personal liberation and vulnerability. While it is widely understood, the decision to use it often depends on the level of intimacy and the cultural openness of the social circle involved.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal closet-related activities, as the metaphorical meaning is now so dominant that any ambiguity is rare. However, be mindful that it is a sensitive topic, and using it in a casual or joking manner can be perceived as highly offensive or dismissive of the individual's journey.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- 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.
- 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.
