m4 tong1 m4 seoi2唔湯唔水唔汤唔水
Jyutpingm4 tong1 m4 seoi2
Yalem̀h tōng m̀h séui
Definition
Neither fish nor fowl; in-between and indeterminate; in an awkward or ambiguous state.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Describes something that lacks a clear identity or fails to commit to a specific quality, often implying a lack of effort or competence. It carries a strong sense of dissatisfaction, suggesting that the subject is stuck in an awkward middle ground where it fails to satisfy any criteria. Use this when criticizing work or attitudes that feel half-baked or indecisive.
Examples
His proposal is neither here nor there, with no clear focus at all.
Don't do things in such a wishy-washy way, you need to provide an explanation.
Related words
Common phrases
to do something in a half-hearted or ineffective way
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe literal food or liquids, as it is strictly used as a metaphorical idiom for abstract situations, work, or personal attitudes.
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.
