mo4 dau6 fu6磨豆腐
Jyutpingmo4 dau6 fu6
Yalemòh dauh fuh
Definition
To grumble, complain, or mumble repeatedly.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Originating from the laborious process of grinding soybeans, this idiom captures the repetitive and tedious nature of someone complaining incessantly. It carries a sense of impatience from the listener, suggesting that the speaker is wasting time with their endless whining. Use it when someone is dragging out their complaints rather than taking action.
Examples
Stop grumbling, get to work quickly.
He is always grumbling there, it is so annoying to listen to.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of making tofu, which is rarely described with this specific phrase in modern contexts. It is strictly used to describe someone's annoying habit of complaining or nagging.
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.
