mou4 baai3膜拜

Jyutpingmou4 baai3

Yalemòuh baai

動詞

Definition

To kneel and bow with hands joined at forehead level to worship a deity; figuratively, to worship a person or concept as supreme.

to kneel and bow with joined hands at forehead level to worship a deity
figurativeto worship a person, idea, or concept as supreme

colloquialpeopleemotion

How it's used

Originally describing the physical act of kneeling and bowing with hands joined at the forehead, this term has evolved into a common way to describe intense admiration or fanatical support. It carries a slightly hyperbolic tone when used for people or trends, suggesting a level of devotion that borders on religious fervor. It is much more formal and dramatic than simply saying 崇拜.

Examples

keoi5佢dei6哋喺hai2廟miu6入jap6面min6誠sing4心sam1膜mou4拜。

They are worshipping sincerely inside the temple.

nei5你zou6做me1咩gam3咁mou4膜baai3拜go2嗰go3個mong5網hung4紅aa4呀？

Why are you worshipping that influencer so much?

Common phrases

mou4膜baai3拜ngau5偶zoeng6像

to worship an idol

Common mistake

Learners often use this for any kind of liking or admiring, but it is too strong for casual preferences. It implies a sense of submission or total reverence that makes it sound strange if applied to everyday hobbies or minor interests.