mau6 lei5瞀里
Jyutpingmau6 lei5
Yalemauh léih
Definition
Fool; idiot; an offensive term for someone who is silly, foolish, or useless.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This term carries a slightly derogatory tone, implying someone is slow-witted or acting foolishly. It is often used to describe someone who is being intentionally naive or playing dumb to avoid responsibility. Unlike more neutral terms for stupidity, this carries a sense of social awkwardness or lack of awareness.
Examples
Why are you acting so dumb?
He always pretends to be dumb to trick people.
Related words
Common phrases
to play dumb
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 蠢, which is a more direct and common way to call someone stupid. 瞀里 often implies a specific state of being dazed or acting oblivious rather than a permanent lack of intelligence.
Grammar color guide
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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.
