jam1 jam1 siu3陰陰笑阴阴笑
Jyutpingjam1 jam1 siu3
Yaleyām yām siu
Definition
To smile slyly, secretly, or snidely.
colloquialdescriptionsemotion
How it's used
This reduplicated phrase captures the specific nuance of a suppressed or secretive smirk that suggests someone is up to no good. It is often used to describe a look that implies the person knows a secret or is planning a prank. Unlike a standard smile, it carries a slightly mischievous or even sinister undertone.
Examples
He is smiling slyly, there must be something fishy.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being happy or friendly. Using this to describe a genuine, warm smile will make the speaker sound suspicious or imply that the person is being malicious.
Grammar color guide
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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.
