gaau2 mat1 gwai2 aa3攪乜鬼呀搅乜鬼呀
Jyutpinggaau2 mat1 gwai2 aa3
Yalegáau māt gwái a
Definition
What on earth is going on? Or what the heck are you doing?
colloquialcommunicationslang
How it's used
This phrase is a highly informal way to express confusion, frustration, or annoyance at a situation. The inclusion of 鬼 adds a sense of exasperation or incredulity, making it much stronger than a simple question like 攪乜嘢. It is typically used when someone is doing something illogical, messy, or unexpected.
Examples
What on earth are you doing there?
Common phrases
What the heck are you doing
Common mistake
Avoid using this in professional or formal settings, as the inclusion of 鬼 can sound aggressive or rude depending on your tone. It is best reserved for friends or people you are very familiar with.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
