maa5 maa5 fu2 fu2馬馬虎虎马马虎虎
Jyutpingmaa5 maa5 fu2 fu2
Yalemáh máh fú fú
Definition
Careless, casual, or perfunctory.
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
Often used to describe someone's attitude toward a task rather than just a single mistake. It carries a sense of being sloppy or lacking attention to detail, which can be frustrating to others. While it can mean 'so-so' in some contexts, in Hong Kong it is most frequently used to criticize a lack of diligence.
Examples
He works very carelessly and makes mistakes all the time.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to mean 'so-so' or 'average' in a positive or neutral way, as it almost always implies a negative, lazy attitude in local speech.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
