ging1 gwai3矜貴矜贵
Jyutpingging1 gwai3
Yalegīng gwai
Definition
Precious or valuable; also used figuratively or sarcastically to describe someone or something fragile or pampered.
- precious, valuable, or of great personal significance
- figurativefragile, pampered, or unable to endure hardship or rough handling
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Beyond describing physical value, this word often carries a nuance of fragility or high maintenance. When applied to people, it can sound slightly sarcastic or critical, implying someone is too delicate to handle real work or rough conditions. It highlights that something requires careful handling or special treatment to avoid damage or offense.
Examples
This shirt is very delicate, don't just wash it however you like.
That person is very high-maintenance, they can't handle even a little bit of hardship.
Related words
Common phrases
delicate and pampered
Common mistake
Avoid using this word to describe the price of everyday commodities, as it implies a sense of delicacy or rarity rather than just being expensive. For items that are simply costly, use 貴 instead.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
