maa1 gung1 zai2孖公仔
Jyutpingmaa1 gung1 zai2
Yalemā gūng jái
Definition
An inseparable pair; a close couple or friends who are always seen together.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to people who are physically or socially inseparable, often implying they are inseparable to the point of being slightly annoying or overly dependent. While it literally means twin dolls, it is used to describe the dynamic of the relationship rather than the people themselves. It is frequently used in a teasing or observational tone when someone notices two people are always in the same place at the same time.
Measure word
deoi3對deuiExamples
Those two are always like inseparable twins, going everywhere together.
Why are you two always stuck together like glue?
Related words
Common phrases
like inseparable twins
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe actual twins, as it specifically refers to the closeness of the relationship rather than biological siblings. It is also not used for inanimate objects, even if they are sold as a pair.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
