maa5 lau1 zing1馬騮精马骝精
Jyutpingmaa5 lau1 zing1
Yalemáh lāu jīng
Definition
An active, mischievous, or naughty child.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Describes a child who is hyperactive or mischievous in a way that is often viewed with a mix of exasperation and affection. While it literally refers to a monkey spirit, it is rarely used to describe actual animals, focusing instead on the restless, energetic, and sometimes troublesome behavior of children. It carries a slightly playful tone compared to calling a child simply 曳 or 百厭.
Measure word
zek3隻jekExamples
Your son is such a little monkey, always running around.
Related words
Common phrases
acting just like a little monkey
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe adults unless you are being very informal or teasing someone about their childish, restless behavior. It is specifically reserved for children.
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.
