cou1 seng1 cou1 hei3粗聲粗氣粗声粗气
Jyutpingcou1 seng1 cou1 hei3
Yalechōu sēng chōu hei
Definition
Speaking in a gruff, brusque, or unfriendly voice and manner.
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
This expression specifically describes a combination of a loud, low-pitched voice and a harsh, impatient attitude. It is frequently used to criticize someone for lacking manners or being unnecessarily aggressive during a conversation. Unlike simply being loud, it implies a lack of refinement or a deliberate attempt to intimidate the listener.
Examples
He usually speaks in a gruff way, but he is actually a kind person.
Why are you being so brusque with the customer?
Related words
Common phrases
to speak in a gruff manner
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is just naturally loud or has a deep voice if their tone is actually friendly or neutral. It is strictly for when the harshness of the voice is perceived as rude or hostile.
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.
