jau5 gwaai3 mok6 gwaai3有怪莫怪
Definition
To ask a ghost, deity, or an elder or senior person to overlook one's mistakes or faults.
How it's used
This expression functions as a polite, ritualized apology used when someone feels they have inadvertently offended a superior or a supernatural entity. It carries a humble tone that acknowledges the speaker's lower status or lack of experience. While often used jokingly among friends to soften a minor mistake, it retains a respectful undertone rooted in traditional social etiquette.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often use this phrase in inappropriate contexts, such as apologizing to a peer for a serious mistake. It is specifically intended for situations involving a power imbalance or when addressing spirits, so using it with friends for major errors can sound overly dramatic or sarcastic.
Grammar color guide
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.
