gang2 zik6耿直
Jyutpinggang2 zik6
Yalegáng jihk
Definition
Honest, upright, and straightforward.
neutralpeopledescriptions
How it's used
耿直 carries a slightly formal or literary tone, often describing someone who is blunt or uncompromising in their integrity. While it implies honesty, it also suggests a lack of social tact or flexibility, which can sometimes be a double edged sword in interpersonal relationships.
Examples
He is a very honest person, he will speak his mind about anything.
Related words
Common phrases
an honest and forthright person
to have an honest and upright personality
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common everyday adjective like 老實, but 耿直 is more specific to someone who is principled and forthright to a fault. It is rarely used in casual small talk to describe a simple, kind person.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
