hau2 gwaai1口乖
Jyutpinghau2 gwaai1
Yaleháu gwāai
Definition
Sweet-talking; skilled at saying pleasing or flattering things to make others happy.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Describes someone who uses pleasant or flattering language to gain favor or avoid trouble. It often carries a slightly manipulative connotation, suggesting the person is being strategic rather than purely sincere. It is frequently used to describe children or younger people who know how to charm adults.
Examples
He is usually very sweet-tongued and always makes the elderly happy.
Related words
Common phrases
very sweet-tongued
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with being genuinely kind or polite. While it involves polite language, the focus is on the effect of the words on the listener rather than the speaker's actual character.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
