mou4 kai1 zi1 taam4無稽之談无稽之谈
Jyutpingmou4 kai1 zi1 taam4
Yalemòuh kāi jī tàahm
Definition
Nonsense; groundless talk or unfounded statements.
colloquialcommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
Carries a formal and slightly literary weight despite being used in everyday speech to dismiss claims as ridiculous. It is often paired with the verb 係 or the adverb 純屬 to emphasize the lack of factual basis. Using it effectively signals that the speaker finds the information not just wrong, but absurdly disconnected from reality.
Examples
These rumors are completely groundless, don't believe them.
What he said is simply nonsense, who would ever believe that?
Related words
Common phrases
purely groundless talk
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple way to say 'wrong' or 'lie', but it specifically refers to claims that lack any logical or factual foundation. It is too strong to use for simple mistakes or minor disagreements.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
