daai3 gou1 mou2戴高帽
Jyutpingdaai3 gou1 mou2
Yaledaai gōu móu
Definition
To flatter someone, especially by praising them excessively or insincerely.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Literally meaning to put a tall hat on someone, this idiom describes the act of giving excessive or insincere praise to gain favor. It is almost exclusively used to criticize someone for being a sycophant or a brown-noser. The phrase carries a strong sense of disapproval, implying that the person being praised is being manipulated or that the flatterer is being disingenuous.
Examples
No need to butter me up, I know my own worth.
He always likes to flatter the boss, it's so annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
likes to flatter
no need for flattery
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of wearing a hat, which uses the verb 戴. Also, avoid using this to describe genuine compliments, as it specifically targets insincere flattery intended for personal gain.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
