gaam1 mak6緘默缄默
Jyutpinggaam1 mak6
Yalegāam mahk
Definition
To keep silent, especially out of caution; silence or reticence.
writtencommunicationother
How it's used
This term carries a formal, legalistic weight that makes it sound quite serious compared to everyday ways of saying someone is quiet. It is most frequently encountered in the context of legal rights, specifically the right to remain silent during police interrogation. Using it in casual conversation often adds a layer of deliberate, heavy gravity or irony.
Examples
Facing police questioning, he chose to remain silent.
Why have you been silent and not said a word all day?
Related words
Common phrases
remain silent
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply shy or naturally quiet. It implies a conscious, strategic decision to withhold information rather than a lack of desire to speak.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
