me2 li1 me2 ce3歪哩歪斜
Jyutpingme2 li1 me2 ce3
Yalemé lī mé che
Definition
Wonky, crooked, or askew.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
This reduplicated four-character idiom is used to describe objects or physical alignment that lack symmetry or straightness. It carries a slightly informal tone and is often used to express mild annoyance or to point out something that needs adjustment. It is more vivid and descriptive than the simpler 歪.
Examples
The painting is hanging crookedly, help me straighten it out.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 歪歪斜斜, which is a more standard, neutral way to describe the same state. 歪哩歪斜 is specifically colloquial and emphasizes the visual awkwardness of the crookedness.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
