gin3 ngoi6見外见外
Definition
To treat someone as an outsider, keeping a distance and acting overly polite.
How it's used
Often used as a polite social lubricant to signal that a relationship is closer than the current behavior suggests. It is frequently employed when someone is being overly formal, hesitant, or hesitant to accept a favor, effectively inviting them to drop their guard. While it can describe a cold or distant attitude, it is most commonly heard in this encouraging, hospitable context.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for simply meaning shy or formal, but it specifically carries the nuance of treating someone like a stranger or guest rather than a member of the inner circle. It is rarely used to describe oneself unless you are actively trying to sound humble or apologetic for being distant.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
