maau1 niu6貓尿猫尿
Jyutpingmaau1 niu6
Yalemāau niuh
Definition
Tears; to weep or cry.
- slangtears
- slangto weep; to cry
colloquialbodyemotion
How it's used
This is a vivid, slightly humorous way to describe someone crying, often implying that the tears are excessive or perhaps a bit pathetic. It is almost exclusively used in the context of someone being visibly upset or sobbing uncontrollably. Using it can soften the tone of a situation, making it sound less serious than a formal description of grief.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this term to describe someone who is genuinely mourning or in deep distress, as it can sound dismissive or mocking. It is best reserved for casual conversation about someone crying over something relatively minor or for describing a child's tantrum.
Grammar color guide
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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.
