jaa4 jaa4 wu1吔吔烏吔吔乌
Jyutpingjaa4 jaa4 wu1
Yaleyàh yàh wū
Definition
Sloppy, messy, and thoughtless, or used to describe a frivolous person of low skill.
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
This term carries a strong sense of disapproval for someone who is careless, disorganized, or lacks professional standards. It is often used to describe a person's attitude toward a task rather than their inherent personality. The reduplicated structure adds a rhythmic, dismissive quality that makes the criticism sound more informal and biting.
Examples
He is so sloppy with his work, how can we trust him with this?
Don't be so frivolous, can you be a bit more serious?
Related words
Common phrases
to work in a sloppy or careless manner
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with words describing physical messiness like 邋遢, as this term specifically targets a lack of focus, competence, or seriousness in one's actions.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
