hei3 lung6戲弄戏弄
Jyutpinghei3 lung6
Yalehei luhng
Definition
To make fun of, tease, or play tricks on someone to make them look foolish.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a negative connotation of being mean-spirited or bullying, rather than just playful teasing. It implies a power imbalance where the person being targeted is humiliated or made to look foolish for the amusement of others.
Examples
Why do you always make fun of your younger brother?
He likes to play tricks on people, which makes everyone dislike him.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 玩, which can be neutral or positive like hanging out or playing a game. Using 戲弄 suggests you are intentionally causing distress or embarrassment to someone.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
