naan4 tai2難睇难睇
Jyutpingnaan4 tai2
Yalenàahn tái
Definition
Ugly or unpleasant in appearance; also embarrassing, shameful, or awkward.
- unsightly; ugly; unpleasant to look at
- embarrassing; shameful; awkward; disgraceful
colloquialdescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Beyond describing physical aesthetics, this term frequently describes social situations or behaviors that cause a loss of face. It carries a strong sense of disapproval or embarrassment when someone acts in a way that is socially unacceptable. Using it to describe a person's character or actions is quite blunt and can be perceived as harsh.
Examples
The color of your shirt is really ugly, hurry up and change it.
The way he behaves is really shameful and embarrassing.
Related words
Common phrases
ugly and unsightly
to act in a shameful way
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 唔好睇, which is a more neutral way to say something is not good to look at. 難睇 implies a stronger, more negative judgment and can also carry the metaphorical meaning of being disgraceful or embarrassing.
Grammar color guide
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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.
