gong2 saam1 zi6 ging1講三字經讲三字经
Jyutpinggong2 saam1 zi6 ging1
Yalegóng sāam jih gīng
Definition
To utter profanities or use vulgar language.
colloquialcommunicationslang
How it's used
This phrase is a euphemism used to avoid saying the actual act of cursing or using foul language. It literally refers to the Three Character Classic, a traditional educational text, creating a humorous contrast between the refined nature of the book and the vulgarity of swearing. It is a common way to call someone out for their bad language without repeating the offensive words yourself.
Examples
He likes to swear whenever he gets angry.
Why are you swearing here?
Related words
Common phrases
likes to swear
always swearing
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the actual historical text. Using this phrase in a formal setting or with elders is still considered rude or inappropriate, even though it is technically a euphemism.
Grammar color guide
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Verb
Adjective
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Particle
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Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
