diu1 kiu4 nau2 ning6刁僑扭擰刁侨扭拧
Jyutpingdiu1 kiu4 nau2 ning6
Yaledīu kìuh náu nihng
Definition
Spoilt, demanding, and unreasonably difficult, typically describing the behavior of a child or young person.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of exasperation, specifically targeting behavior that is perceived as performative or unnecessarily stubborn. It is almost exclusively used to describe children or younger people who are acting out to get their own way. The rhythm of the four characters emphasizes the repetitive, annoying nature of the person's fussiness.
Examples
The kid is being difficult and demanding again, it's so annoying.
Stop being so fussy and difficult, eat your meal quickly.
Related words
Common phrases
always being difficult and fussy
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply being firm or principled. It implies that the person is acting unreasonably or throwing a tantrum to manipulate a situation.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
