daam1 si2 dou1 m4 tau1 sik6擔屎都唔偷食担屎都唔偷食
Definition
Extremely honest, reliable, and law-abiding, sometimes to the point of being rigid and inflexible.
How it's used
This idiom highlights an extreme level of integrity where a person is so honest that they would not even steal something as worthless as excrement. It is often used to describe someone who is incorruptible or strictly adheres to moral principles, sometimes to the point of being perceived as inflexible or overly rigid. It carries a strong sense of reliability and is a high compliment regarding someone's character.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply shy or quiet, as it specifically refers to moral uprightness and the refusal to take advantage of a situation. It is also not used to describe someone who is physically clean, but rather someone who is ethically clean.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
