m4 hai6 gam2 waa2唔係噉話唔系啖话
Jyutpingm4 hai6 gam2 waa2
Yalem̀h haih gám wá
Definition
Don't say that; a polite phrase used to respond to flattery or thanks.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This phrase functions as a humble response to praise or compliments. It signals that the speaker feels unworthy of the high regard expressed by the other person. It is a polite way to deflect attention and maintain social harmony.
Related words
Common phrases
Don't say that, you flatter me.
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal disagreement or a way to silence someone, but it is strictly a social convention for modesty. Using it too bluntly can sound like you are rejecting the other person's kindness, so it is often paired with a soft particle like 喇.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
