ng5 jam1 bat1 cyun4五音不全
Jyutpingng5 jam1 bat1 cyun4
Yaleńgh yām bāt chyùhn
Definition
To have no sense of pitch; to be unable to sing in tune.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is used to describe someone who lacks the ability to sing in tune or hit the correct notes. It carries a slightly humorous or self-deprecating tone rather than being a harsh clinical diagnosis. People often use it to explain why they avoid karaoke or singing in public settings.
Examples
He is really tone-deaf when he sings, it sounds terrible.
Are you tone-deaf? Why are you singing so off-key?
Related words
Common phrases
to sing out of tune
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.
