mou5 jiu1 gwat1冇腰骨
Jyutpingmou5 jiu1 gwat1
Yalemóuh yīu gwāt
Definition
Spineless or unreliable; lacking backbone or moral courage.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Refers specifically to a lack of moral integrity or personal principles rather than physical cowardice. It implies someone is easily swayed by others or willing to compromise their values for personal gain. The imagery of lacking a waist bone suggests a person who cannot stand upright or hold their own ground in a difficult situation.
Examples
He has no backbone and is always going back on his word.
How can you expect people to trust you when you act so spineless?
Related words
Common phrases
to be a person without integrity
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is physically weak or frail, as it is strictly a metaphorical term for character and integrity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
