nau2 nau2 ling6 ling6扭扭擰擰扭扭拧拧
Jyutpingnau2 nau2 ling6 ling6
Yalenáu náu lihng lihng
Definition
Hesitant, coy, or behaving in an indecisive or affected manner.
colloquialdescriptionsemotion
How it's used
Reduplication of the verb 扭擰 emphasizes the repetitive, annoying nature of the hesitation. It is frequently used to describe someone who is being coy or shy in a way that feels insincere or frustrating to the observer. The tone is almost always critical, implying that the person should just make a decision or speak their mind.
Examples
Why are you being so hesitant? Just say it quickly.
He is always being indecisive and coy, it is really annoying.
Related words
Common phrases
in a hesitant or coy manner
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being shy or introverted. This term carries a negative connotation of being unnecessarily difficult, indecisive, or playing hard to get, rather than just lacking confidence.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
