naa2 lei6乸脷
Jyutpingnaa2 lei6
Yalená leih
Definition
Very expensive or pricey, typically used to describe everyday expenses.
colloquialmoneydescriptions
How it's used
Carries a sense of being stung or pinched by the cost, reflecting the feeling that the price is disproportionately high for the item or service. It is specifically reserved for everyday expenses like food, transport, or small retail items rather than major investments like property or luxury cars. Using it adds a layer of personal frustration or shock regarding the impact on one's wallet.
Examples
Eating out nowadays is really quite expensive.
This shirt you bought is so pricey, why didn't you wait for a sale?
Related words
Common phrases
very expensive
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe high-end luxury goods or professional services, as it is meant for common, recurring costs that feel burdensome. It is strictly for informal, spoken contexts and would sound out of place in a formal report or business setting.
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.
