ham2 tau2 maai4 coeng4坎頭埋牆坎头埋墙
Jyutpingham2 tau2 maai4 coeng4
Yalehám táu màaih chèuhng
Definition
To bang one's head against a wall; to do something out of desperation or extreme frustration.
colloquialbodyemotion
How it's used
This expression is used to describe someone who is acting stubbornly or foolishly, often by persisting in a futile task or refusing to listen to reason. It carries a sense of frustration from the observer, implying that the person is causing themselves unnecessary pain or trouble. It is a vivid, physical metaphor for self-destructive persistence.
Examples
Why are you banging your head against the wall?
He is always banging his head against the wall, I really can't do anything about him.
Related words
Common phrases
as stupid as banging one's head against a wall
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
