maan6 tiu4 si1 lei5慢條斯理慢条斯理
Jyutpingmaan6 tiu4 si1 lei5
Yalemaahn tìuh sī léih
Definition
Slowly, unhurriedly, and leisurely; performing actions in a calm, imperturbable, and unhurried manner.
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
Often carries a slightly critical tone when used to describe someone who is being inefficient or delaying others. While it can describe a calm, composed demeanor, it is frequently employed in workplace or social settings to express frustration with someone who lacks a sense of urgency. It implies a deliberate, almost stubborn refusal to speed up regardless of the pressure.
Examples
He works so slowly and leisurely, it really makes me impatient.
Can you stop being so unhurried and move a bit faster!
Related words
Common phrases
to do something in an unhurried manner
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being lazy or incompetent. It specifically describes the pace and attitude of the person, suggesting they are moving at their own leisurely speed regardless of external deadlines.
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.
