m4 ngaam1 ki1唔啱ｋｅｙ
Jyutpingm4 ngaam1 ki1
Yalem̀h ngāam kī
Definition
Incompatible, unable to get along, or on a different wavelength.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This expression uses the English loanword key to represent a sense of harmony or shared frequency. It is frequently used to describe personality clashes or a lack of chemistry between people who struggle to communicate effectively. It carries a casual, slightly dismissive tone, often used when explaining why a social or professional relationship is failing.
Related words
Common phrases
completely incompatible
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply having different opinions. It refers specifically to a fundamental lack of rapport or chemistry rather than a disagreement on a single issue.
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.
