maang4 zi6 dou1 m4 sik1 do1 zi6盲字都唔識多隻盲字都唔识多只
Jyutpingmaang4 zi6 dou1 m4 sik1 do1 zi6
Yalemàahng jih dōu m̀h sīk dō jih
Definition
Completely illiterate; not knowing even a single word.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is a hyperbolic way to describe someone who is functionally illiterate or unable to read even the simplest text. While it literally mentions not knowing a single character, it is often used figuratively to mock someone for failing to understand basic instructions or written information. It carries a strong, blunt, and sometimes insulting tone, so it should be used with caution when talking about others.
Examples
He didn't go to school much and is truly completely illiterate.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply uneducated in a general sense, as it specifically targets the inability to read characters. It is not a polite way to discuss literacy issues and can sound quite harsh or derogatory.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
