jing6 can1 jing6 cik1認親認戚认亲认戚
Jyutpingjing6 can1 jing6 cik1
Yaleyihng chān yihng chīk
Definition
To claim a close relationship or pretend to be intimate with someone who is actually an acquaintance.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This phrase is almost exclusively used to criticize someone for being opportunistic or socially climbing. It implies the person is trying to gain an advantage, such as money or status, by falsely claiming or implying a familial bond. It carries a strong sense of disapproval and is often used to call out someone who is being fake.
Examples
As soon as he saw someone rich, he started trying to act like their relative.
You don't even know them well, stop trying to act like you're close.
Related words
Common phrases
indiscriminately trying to claim kinship with others
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a neutral way to describe meeting relatives, but it is strictly a negative, accusatory term. Never use it to describe an actual family reunion or meeting a long lost cousin.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Particle
Connector
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.
