dai3諦谛
Jyutpingdai3
Yaledai
Definition
To mock, tease, or speak sarcastically about someone.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of malicious intent or passive aggression compared to simple joking. It specifically refers to the act of using sharp, indirect language to belittle someone or point out their flaws in a public or semi-public setting. People often use it to describe someone who is being intentionally difficult or provocative through their words.
Examples
Why do you always mock me behind my back?
He loves to tease others when he speaks, it is so annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
to deliberately mock someone
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simple teasing or joking, which is often lighthearted. Using this word implies a level of hostility or a desire to make the other person feel uncomfortable or inferior.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
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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.
