fu2 gwaa1 gam2 min6苦瓜噉面苦瓜啖面
Jyutpingfu2 gwaa1 gam2 min6
Yalefú gwā gám mihn
Definition
To have a miserable or scowling expression; to pull a long face.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
This idiom literally compares a person's facial expression to a bitter melon, which is known for its wrinkled and puckered appearance. It is used to describe someone who looks unhappy, sullen, or perpetually dissatisfied. Unlike simply being sad, this term implies a visible, often annoying, display of gloominess that affects the mood of those around the person.
Examples
He looks miserable as soon as he hears about a meeting.
Related words
Common phrases
always looking miserable
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is genuinely grieving or suffering from a tragedy, as it carries a slightly critical or mocking tone suggesting the person is being unnecessarily sour or dramatic.
Grammar color guide
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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.
