laai1 zai2 laai1 sam1 gon1 laai1 neoi5 laai1 ng5 zong6孻仔拉心肝孻女拉五臟孻仔拉心肝孻女拉五脏
Jyutpinglaai1 zai2 laai1 sam1 gon1 laai1 neoi5 laai1 ng5 zong6
Yalelāai jái lāai sām gōn lāai néuih lāai ńgh johng
Definition
The youngest child always receives the most attention and affection from their parents.
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
This is a traditional Cantonese proverb reflecting the cultural tendency for parents to dote on their youngest child. It uses visceral imagery of pulling at the heart and internal organs to emphasize that the youngest is physically and emotionally closest to the parents. It is often used in family contexts to explain why a younger sibling might get away with more or receive more resources.
Examples
The youngest child is always the favorite, the father loves them the most.
Do you know why they say the youngest child is always the most cherished?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not mistake this for a literal description of medical or physical pain. It is strictly a metaphorical expression used to describe parental favoritism or affection toward the youngest member of the family.
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.
