gei1 gat6嘰趷叽趷
Jyutpinggei1 gat6
Yalegēi gaht
Definition
To mumble, grumble, or talk indistinctly in an annoying or complaining manner.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This term specifically captures the sound and annoyance of someone muttering complaints under their breath. It carries a stronger negative connotation than simply talking quietly, as it implies the speaker is being passive aggressive or difficult. You will often hear it used when someone is unhappy about a task but does not have the courage to say it directly to a superior.
Examples
What are you mumbling about?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with general whispering, as the term implies a sense of dissatisfaction or annoyance. Using it to describe a normal, polite conversation will sound very strange and accusatory.
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.
