hoi1 hau2 gap3 zoek6 lei6開口夾著脷开口夹着脷
Jyutpinghoi1 hau2 gap3 zoek6 lei6
Yalehōi háu gap jeuhk leih
Definition
To speak inadvertently and cause embarrassment, offend others, or bring bad luck.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This idiom describes the specific social mishap of accidentally mentioning a taboo topic or a sensitive personal detail that offends or embarrasses the listener. It literally evokes the image of biting one's own tongue while trying to speak, suggesting that the speaker's own words have caused them harm. It is frequently used as a warning to others to be tactful or as a critique of someone who lacks social awareness.
Examples
Be careful with what you say, don't put your foot in your mouth.
He always says the wrong thing, making the situation very awkward.
Related words
Common phrases
always putting one's foot in one's mouth
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a general term for being talkative or stuttering, but it specifically refers to the social consequence of saying the wrong thing at the wrong time.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
