jiu3 geng2 m4 jiu3 meng6要頸唔要命要颈唔要命
Jyutpingjiu3 geng2 m4 jiu3 meng6
Yaleyiu géng m̀h yiu mehng
Definition
To be stubborn or obstinate, insisting on doing something regardless of the cost or consequences.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This expression vividly captures a sense of reckless persistence where someone prioritizes their stubborn will over their own well-being or safety. It is often used to criticize someone who refuses to compromise even when the situation clearly demands it. The imagery of prioritizing the neck over one's life highlights the absurdity of such rigid behavior.
Examples
He is really stubborn to the point of self-destruction, no matter how much we advise him.
Don't be so stubborn about your work at the expense of your health, take care of yourself.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply hardworking or diligent. It carries a strong negative connotation of being irrational or self-destructive, so it should not be used to praise someone's perseverance.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Adjective
Adverb
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
