mau5 mau5某某
Jyutpingmau5 mau5
Yalemáuh máuh
Definition
So-and-so; a placeholder pronoun used to refer to a person without naming them.
colloquialpeople
How it's used
Use this term when you want to refer to someone without naming them, either because the name is unimportant, forgotten, or intentionally withheld. It functions similarly to a placeholder name in English like 'what's-his-name' or 'so-and-so'. It is frequently used in gossip or when relaying vague information.
Examples
I heard so-and-so is coming today.
Related words
Common phrases
a certain person
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to someone you know well, as it can sound dismissive or rude. It is best reserved for hypothetical people or when the identity is truly irrelevant to the conversation.
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.
