gong1 bik1 zi6 jung6剛愎自用刚愎自用
Jyutpinggong1 bik1 zi6 jung6
Yalegōng bīk jih yuhng
Definition
Obstinate, self-opinionated, and stubborn; refusing to listen to others' advice.
writtenpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This is a formal idiom that carries a strong negative connotation of arrogance and refusal to accept advice. While it is perfectly understandable in spoken Cantonese, it is typically reserved for describing someone's character in a serious or critical context rather than casual small talk. Using it in daily conversation can make you sound quite sophisticated or stern.
Examples
He is so self-opinionated, who would be willing to work with him?
Related words
Common phrases
to have a self-opinionated personality
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with simple stubbornness like 固執. Remember that this term specifically implies a sense of superiority and the belief that one's own judgment is always better than everyone else's.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
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.
