gwaai3 sek6 leon4 seon1怪石嶙峋
Definition
To have weirdly shaped rocks standing next to each other, or to describe a bony and thin person.
- weirdly shaped rocks standing next to each other
- figurativeextremely bony and thin
How it's used
This idiom is primarily used in formal or descriptive writing to depict rugged landscapes, but it has evolved a metaphorical, often slightly humorous or exaggerated, usage when describing someone who is extremely thin. When applied to people, it emphasizes the sharp, protruding appearance of bones, particularly the collarbone or ribs. It carries a stronger, more vivid visual impact than simply saying someone is skinny.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is merely slim or fit, as it implies a gaunt, skeletal, or unhealthy appearance. It is a very descriptive, heavy-duty idiom that sounds out of place in casual, everyday small talk unless you are intentionally being dramatic or descriptive.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
