cim2 siu3諂笑谄笑
Jyutpingcim2 siu3
Yalechím siu
Definition
To smile obsequiously or give a fawning smile.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term describes a specific type of insincere, servile smile used to curry favor with someone in a position of power. It carries a strong negative connotation of sycophancy and lack of self respect. While it is a formal term, it is frequently used in descriptive speech to criticize someone's behavior.
Examples
He is always fawning over the boss with a fake smile, it is really embarrassing.
Why are you fawning over him? He is not your boss.
Related words
Common phrases
a face full of fawning smiles
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with a polite or friendly smile. Using this word implies that the person is being manipulative or pathetic to gain an advantage, so it is highly offensive if used to describe someone's genuine expression.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
