maang1 saam1 mei5掹衫尾
Jyutpingmaang1 saam1 mei5
Yalemāang sāam méih
Definition
To use personal connections or piggyback on someone else to achieve a goal or gain entry.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This expression carries a slightly negative or self-deprecating nuance, implying that the person did not earn their spot through their own merit. It is often used to describe someone tagging along to an exclusive event or project by clinging to a more influential person. The imagery of pulling someone's shirt tail vividly captures the sense of being a hanger-on.
Examples
He always tags along to get into parties through his connections.
Are you trying to use your connections to get an invite to that dinner?
Related words
Common phrases
to tag along to get inside
to participate by using connections
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe legitimate networking or professional introductions, as it specifically implies an unearned or slightly parasitic advantage.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
