jau5 tau4 mou5 mei5有頭冇尾有头冇尾
Jyutpingjau5 tau4 mou5 mei5
Yaleyáuh tàuh móuh méih
Definition
To start something but leave it unfinished; to have a beginning but no ending.
colloquialdaily actionswork
How it's used
This idiom describes a lack of persistence or follow-through rather than just a simple delay. It is frequently used to criticize someone's character or work ethic, implying that they start projects with enthusiasm but lose interest before completion. It carries a slightly negative, judgmental tone.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a task that is simply interrupted by an external force. It specifically refers to a personal failure to finish what was started.
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.
