gwai2 daa2 dou1 mou5 gam3 sing2鬼打都冇咁醒
Jyutpinggwai2 daa2 dou1 mou5 gam3 sing2
Yalegwái dá dōu móuh gam síng
Definition
Extremely clever, smart, and sharp.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is a hyperbolic way of saying someone is exceptionally clever or quick-witted. The literal imagery suggests that even if a ghost were to strike or haunt someone, they would still be alert and sharp enough to handle it. It is almost exclusively used to praise someone's sudden insight or consistent mental agility.
Examples
He is usually so sharp, why is he acting so stupid today?
You coming up with this method is truly brilliant!
Related words
Common phrases
extremely clever
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply 'intelligent' in a general, academic sense. It is reserved for moments of cleverness, cunning, or quick thinking in specific situations.
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.
