gin3 gwo3 gwai2 zau6 paa3 hak1見過鬼就怕黑见过鬼就怕黑
Jyutpinggin3 gwo3 gwai2 zau6 paa3 hak1
Yalegin gwo gwái jauh pa hāk
Definition
Once bitten, twice shy; being extremely cautious after having a bad experience.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
This idiom describes a state of lingering fear or extreme caution following a negative past experience. It is frequently used to tease someone who is being overly hesitant or skeptical about a situation that is actually safe or different from their previous trauma.
Examples
He was cheated before, so he is once bitten, twice shy.
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a simple dislike or a preference. It specifically implies that the person's current avoidance is a direct, often irrational, reaction to a specific bad memory.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
