maa1 sei3孖四
Jyutpingmaa1 sei3
Yalemā sei
Definition
To be a busybody or gossip.
colloquialpeopleslang
How it's used
Deriving from the mahjong term for a pair of fours, this expression links the sum of eight to the Cantonese slang 八卦. It carries a slightly playful yet critical tone, often used to call out someone who is overly curious about matters that do not concern them. It is more common among older generations or in casual, lighthearted banter.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of the number four in a game context, as the metaphorical sense of being a busybody is the primary usage in daily speech.
Grammar color guide
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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.
