naau6 tung1 gaai1鬧通街闹通街
Jyutpingnaau6 tung1 gaai1
Yalenaauh tūng gāai
Definition
To argue publicly or make a scene so that everyone knows about it.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This expression vividly captures the image of a dispute spilling out of private space into the public sphere. It is often used to criticize someone for lacking decorum or for being overly dramatic during a disagreement. While it literally refers to shouting, it can also metaphorically describe a secret or scandal that has become public knowledge through gossip.
Examples
That couple is having a loud argument downstairs, it's so embarrassing.
Related words
Common phrases
to make a public scene
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply shouting loudly, as it specifically implies a social disturbance or a loss of face caused by the public nature of the conflict.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
