laan5 leng3懶靚懒靓
Jyutpinglaan5 leng3
Yaleláahn leng
Definition
To dress up or preen oneself, especially in a vain or pretentious way.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a slightly critical or teasing tone, implying that the person is putting on airs or trying too hard to appear attractive. It is often used to describe someone who is overly concerned with their appearance in a situation where it seems unnecessary or performative. You will frequently hear it directed at friends or family members when their vanity becomes a bit annoying or comical.
Examples
She is always acting pretty, taking so long to put on makeup.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being beautiful or handsome. It specifically describes the act of trying to look good, often with a sense of vanity or pretense, rather than the state of being attractive itself.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
