maai6 hau2 gwaai1賣口乖卖口乖
Definition
To sweet-talk; to say sweet or flattering things to please someone without malicious intent.
How it's used
This expression describes a specific type of social maneuvering where someone uses flattering or pleasant words to gain a small favor or simply to be liked. Unlike 擦鞋, which implies a more calculated or servile attempt to gain favor from a superior, 賣口乖 is often used for children or younger people who are charmingly cheeky. It carries a lighthearted tone and is rarely used to describe serious professional sycophancy.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for general lying or deception, but it specifically refers to the act of being charming or flattering to get what one wants. It is not necessarily malicious, and it is frequently used in a playful or affectionate context.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
