gaau3 ji4 bat1 sin6教而不善
Jyutpinggaau3 ji4 bat1 sin6
Yalegaau yìh bāt sihn
Definition
Refusing to reform, change, or improve despite being guided, taught, or advised.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of frustration and disappointment, often used when someone repeatedly ignores constructive feedback. It implies that the person has been given ample guidance but chooses to remain stuck in their ways. It is frequently used in interpersonal conflicts or when criticizing someone's persistent bad habits.
Examples
He is truly incorrigible, no matter how much you tell him, he won't listen.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the similar sounding idiom 教而不善, which is often mistakenly used to mean someone who is bad at teaching. In Cantonese, it specifically describes the student or the person receiving the advice, not the teacher.
Grammar color guide
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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.
