mat1 je5 waa2乜嘢話乜嘢话
Jyutpingmat1 je5 waa2
Yalemāt yéh wá
Definition
What? What did you say? Expressing surprise, disbelief, or suspicion.
colloquialcommunicationemotion
How it's used
Expresses disbelief, shock, or a request for repetition when hearing something unexpected. It carries a slightly more emotive or confrontational tone than the simple 乜嘢. Using it often signals that the speaker is taken aback by the information just received.
Examples
What did you just say?
What? He actually quit his job?
Related words
Common phrases
What are you saying?
Common mistake
Avoid using this in formal settings or with superiors, as it can sound rude or aggressive. It is strictly for casual conversations with friends or people you are comfortable with.
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.
