m4 saam1 m4 sei3唔三唔四
Jyutpingm4 saam1 m4 sei3
Yalem̀h sāam m̀h sei
Definition
Dubious, improper, or not meeting social norms and expectations.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of disapproval or suspicion, often implying that someone or something is untrustworthy, improper, or lacks clear status. It is frequently used to describe people who seem to have questionable backgrounds or intentions, or to describe activities that are shady or illicit. The phrase suggests a deviation from social norms or moral standards.
Examples
You should never touch these kinds of dodgy things.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply eccentric or quirky, as the term carries a negative moral judgment rather than just describing personality differences.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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.
