gwai2 sik6 nai4鬼食泥
Jyutpinggwai2 sik6 nai4
Yalegwái sihk nàih
Definition
To mumble or slur one's words.
colloquialcommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
This idiom vividly describes speech that sounds muffled or incoherent, as if the speaker has their mouth full of mud. It is frequently used in a frustrated or impatient tone when someone is mumbling or speaking too quickly to be understood. It functions as a verb phrase and is often followed by the particle 咁 to describe the manner of speaking.
Examples
You are slurring your words so much that I cannot understand you at all.
Stop slurring your words, speak up and be clear.
Related words
Common phrases
to speak in a slurred or mumbled manner
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a person who has a genuine speech impediment, as it is intended to criticize someone who is simply being lazy or unclear in their articulation.
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.
