hak1 baak6 tin1 ngo4黑白天鵝黑白天鹅
Jyutpinghak1 baak6 tin1 ngo4
Yalehāk baahk tīn ngòh
Definition
To nag, grumble, or offer unwanted opinions all day and night.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This expression functions as a vivid metaphor for someone who never stops complaining or lecturing. It relies on the imagery of a swan that is present during both the day and the night, implying a relentless, non-stop stream of speech. It is particularly common when describing parents or partners who constantly voice their opinions or criticisms.
Examples
He nags me all day and night, it is so annoying to hear.
Can you please stop nagging me all the time?
Related words
Common phrases
like a constant nagger
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal animal, as it is strictly a slang idiom for nagging. It is also not a standard dictionary term, so it is best reserved for informal settings among friends or family.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
