jin2 je5演嘢
Jyutpingjin2 je5
Yaleyín yéh
Definition
To show off or act like a big shot to get attention.
- to show off; to do something to display one's skills for attention
- to act like a big shot; to show off one's high status or importance
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of disapproval, implying that the person is performing for attention rather than out of genuine skill. It is often used to describe someone who acts overly dramatic or pretentious to impress others. The term is strictly negative and should not be used to describe someone who is actually talented or humble.
Examples
He is always showing off, it is really annoying.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the formal word 演出, which simply means to perform on stage. Using 演嘢 to describe a professional actor or musician would be an insult, as it suggests their behavior is fake or attention-seeking.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
