ding2 hau4 ding2 geng2頂喉頂頸顶喉顶颈
Jyutpingding2 hau4 ding2 geng2
Yaledíng hàuh díng géng
Definition
To argue back, answer back, or talk back defiantly.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This idiom describes a defiant or argumentative attitude where someone refuses to accept instructions or criticism. It carries a strong sense of disrespect and is typically used when an inferior, such as a child or subordinate, challenges the authority of a superior. The imagery suggests a physical blockage in the throat, reflecting the feeling of words being stuck or thrown back in someone's face.
Examples
Children should not always talk back to their elders.
Related words
Common phrases
always talking back
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a simple disagreement or a debate between equals. It specifically implies a lack of proper respect or insubordination, making it inappropriate for professional or polite discussions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
