gou1 ngou6高傲
Jyutpinggou1 ngou6
Yalegōu ngouh
Definition
Haughty, arrogant, and supercilious; looking down on others.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong negative connotation, implying that someone acts superior and dismissive toward others. It is often used to describe people who look down on those they perceive as having lower status or ability. While similar to 驕傲, which can sometimes be used in a neutral or positive sense like being proud of an achievement, 高傲 is strictly used to criticize someone's condescending attitude.
Examples
He is usually very haughty and rarely talks to people.
Why do you have to be so arrogant? We are all colleagues.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 驕傲, which can mean proud in a positive sense, such as being proud of one's family or work. Using 高傲 to describe a personal achievement would sound very unnatural and suggest you are being insufferably arrogant about it.
Grammar color guide
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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.
