ngaa4 tung3 gam2 seng1牙痛噉聲牙痛啖声
Jyutpingngaa4 tung3 gam2 seng1
Yalengàh tung gám sēng
Definition
To whine and moan about being unwilling to do something when asked.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This expression vividly captures the sound of someone groaning in pain, which is then metaphorically applied to someone who is reluctant or dragging their feet. It is used to describe a person who is not necessarily refusing a task outright, but is making their dissatisfaction or unwillingness very audible and obvious. It carries a strong sense of impatience from the speaker towards the person being described.
Examples
Whenever I ask him to do something, he whines and complains, it is so annoying.
Why are you whining again? Just get it done quickly.
Related words
Common phrases
in a whining manner
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe actual physical pain. It is strictly reserved for complaining about tasks, responsibilities, or requests that someone does not want to fulfill.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
