hau2 so1口疏
Jyutpinghau2 so1
Yaleháu sō
Definition
To have a loose tongue; unable to keep secrets.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Describes someone who lacks the ability to keep a secret or maintain confidentiality. It implies a lack of discipline in speech rather than malicious intent, though the result is often the same. It is frequently used as a warning to others before sharing sensitive information.
Examples
He has a loose tongue, definitely do not tell him.
You are so loose-lipped, how can anyone trust you?
Related words
Common phrases
very loose-lipped
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 口密, which describes someone who is tight-lipped and good at keeping secrets. Learners sometimes mistakenly use it to mean someone who talks too much in general, but it specifically refers to the inability to keep a secret.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
