hon3 bat1 hei2看不起
Jyutpinghon3 bat1 hei2
Yalehon bāt héi
Definition
To look down on; to despise or underestimate.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This verb is almost always used in the split form 睇唔起, where the negative particle 唔 is inserted between the verb and the directional complement. It carries a strong sense of social or moral superiority and is frequently used to describe someone being arrogant or snobbish. While it can describe a general attitude, it is most commonly used when someone feels personally slighted or insulted by another person's dismissive behavior.
Related words
Common phrases
to look down on others
to be looked down upon by others
Common mistake
Learners often try to use the Mandarin form 看不起, but this is not natural in spoken Cantonese. Always use the colloquial 睇唔起 to sound authentic.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
