maai6 sang1 ngau5賣生藕卖生藕
Jyutpingmaai6 sang1 ngau5
Yalemaih sāng ngáuh
Definition
Women flirting with men (slang)
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This expression is a colorful, idiomatic way to describe someone acting in a flirtatious or suggestive manner. It carries a slightly playful or mocking tone, often implying that the person is being overly forward or trying too hard to attract attention. It is essentially interchangeable with 拋生藕, both of which evoke the image of someone trying to sell something raw or unrefined.
Examples
keoi5 seng4 jat6 hai2 gaai1 dou6 maai6 saang1 ngau5 zan1 hai6 m4 paa3 cau2
佢成日喺街度賣生藕，真係唔怕醜。
He is always flirting on the street, he really has no shame.
nei5 zou6 mat1 deoi3 zyu6 go3 haak3 maai6 saang1 ngau5 aa4
你做乜對住個客賣生藕呀？
Why are you flirting with the customer?
Related words
Common phrases
zung1 ji3 maai6 saang1 ngau5
鍾意賣生藕
likes to flirt
Common mistake
Do not use this term in formal or professional settings, as it can sound quite disrespectful or dismissive. It is strictly for casual, informal conversation among friends or when gossiping about someone's behavior.
Tone guide
T1High level
T2High rising
T3Mid level
T4Low falling
T5Low rising
T6Low level
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
