mok1 faa1 sang1剝花生剥花生
Jyutpingmok1 faa1 sang1
Yalemōk fā sāng
Definition
To watch drama unfold as an onlooker or bystander without getting involved.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
Originating from the image of someone sitting back and eating peanuts while watching a dramatic event unfold, this phrase captures the essence of being a passive, often amused, spectator. It is frequently used when people are gossiping about a scandal or watching a public argument without getting involved. The tone is lighthearted and implies a sense of detachment from the conflict at hand.
Examples
They are arguing, I am just watching from the sidelines.
Why are you just standing there watching? Help out instead.
Related words
Common phrases
a person who enjoys watching drama or gossip
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the literal act of peeling peanuts, which is also called 剝花生. Context is key, as the metaphorical usage is almost always used in a social setting where drama is occurring.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
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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.
