gu1 fong1 zi6 soeng2孤芳自賞孤芳自赏
Jyutpinggu1 fong1 zi6 soeng2
Yalegū fōng jih séung
Definition
To indulge in self-admiration, self-complacency, or to be conceited.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Originally a literary idiom describing a flower blooming in isolation, it now carries a strong critical tone when applied to people. It implies someone is detached from reality because they are too obsessed with their own perceived virtues. Use it to describe someone who is arrogant or socially isolated due to their own vanity.
Examples
He is always conceited, thinking he is the most beautiful.
Related words
Common phrases
a conceited person
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a positive trait like self-confidence, but it is almost exclusively used as a criticism of someone's narcissism or lack of humility.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
