m4 gam2 dong1唔敢当

Jyutpingm4 gam2 dong1

Yalem̀h gám dōng

Definition

I dare not accept the honor; a polite expression used when receiving compliments or praise.

colloquialpeoplecommunication

How it's used

Used as a humble response to praise or a compliment that feels excessive or undeserved. It functions as a polite way to deflect flattery, signaling that the speaker considers themselves unworthy of the high status or credit being attributed to them. It is essentially a social ritual to maintain modesty in conversation.

Common phrases

zan1真hai6係m4唔gam2敢dong1當

really don't deserve it

Common mistake

Learners often mistake this for a literal statement of fear, but it is purely a polite social formula. Using it in response to a simple 'thank you' is unnatural, as it is specifically reserved for compliments regarding one's ability, status, or character.