dik1嘀
Jyutpingdik1
Yaledīk
Definition
Used in the word "dik1 gu1" (to whisper, mutter, or mumble).
colloquialcommunication
How it's used
This character is primarily used in the reduplicated form 嘀嘀咕咕 to describe someone whispering or muttering in a way that suggests dissatisfaction or secrecy. It carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that the person is complaining behind others' backs rather than speaking openly. While it is a common spoken expression, it is rarely used as a standalone verb in daily Cantonese.
Examples
He is muttering something, I do not know what he is saying.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 滴, which refers to liquid drops. Note that 嘀 is specifically for the sound of muttering or whispering, whereas 滴 is strictly for water or other liquids.
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.
