min5 tin2靦腆腼腆
Jyutpingmin5 tin2
Yalemíhn tín
Definition
Bashful, shy, or embarrassed.
writtendescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Although this term is understood in Cantonese, it is significantly more formal and literary than the everyday term 怕醜. You will rarely hear it in casual conversation, as it carries a slightly written or descriptive tone often found in novels or formal writing. Using it in a casual setting might make you sound like you are reading from a book.
Examples
He is very bashful when seeing strangers and dares not speak.
Why are you being so bashful? Be more confident.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 怕醜, but 靦腆 specifically describes a shy, reserved, or embarrassed demeanor, whereas 怕醜 is a much broader term that can also imply general social anxiety or lack of confidence.
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.
