hou2 si6好事
Jyutpinghou2 si6
Yalehóu sih
Definition
To be meddlesome, nosy, or to pry into other people's business.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Unlike the standard Mandarin meaning of good deeds, this term in Cantonese is almost exclusively used in a derogatory sense to describe someone who interferes in affairs that do not concern them. It carries a strong nuance of being a busybody or a nuisance. It is frequently used to criticize people who offer unsolicited advice or meddle in private matters.
Examples
Why are you being so meddlesome? You don't need to worry about other people's business.
He is always so meddlesome and likes to gossip everywhere.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for the positive meaning of doing a good deed, which is usually expressed as 做善事 or 做好事 in Cantonese. Using this to describe a kind act will lead to confusion or offense.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
