maa4 maa2麻麻
Jyutpingmaa4 maa2
Yalemàh má
Definition
So-so; not particularly good or satisfying.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Often used as a polite way to express dissatisfaction without being overly blunt or rude. It frequently appears in the reduplicated form to soften the tone of a negative assessment. When someone asks for an opinion, replying with this word signals that while the situation is not disastrous, it certainly did not meet expectations.
Examples
How are you feeling today? Just so-so.
The food at that restaurant is not that great.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe something truly terrible or broken, as it implies a neutral or slightly underwhelming state rather than a complete failure. It is strictly an adjective and cannot be used as a verb to mean 'to dislike'.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
