cung1 ji5 bat1 man4充耳不聞充耳不闻
Jyutpingcung1 ji5 bat1 man4
Yalechūng yíh bāt màhn
Definition
To turn a deaf ear; to refuse to listen to or act on advice.
neutralcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This idiom carries a formal and slightly literary tone, often used in serious contexts or when criticizing someone's stubbornness. It implies a deliberate choice to ignore information rather than just failing to hear it. While it is a four-character idiom, it fits naturally into spoken Cantonese sentences when you want to emphasize the gravity of someone's refusal to listen.
Examples
He turns a deaf ear to my advice, it is so frustrating.
Why do you choose to turn a deaf ear to your boss's warnings?
Related words
Common phrases
to turn a deaf ear to...
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple physical inability to hear, but it specifically describes a willful, active choice to disregard advice or warnings. It is not used for someone who is literally deaf or physically unable to hear a sound.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
