ngaang6 gaau1硬膠
Jyutpingngaang6 gaau1
Yalengaahng gāau
Definition
Hard plastic, such as acrylic.
colloquialotherslang
How it's used
Beyond its literal meaning, this term is widely used in Hong Kong internet slang to describe someone acting foolishly, awkwardly, or making a cringeworthy mistake. It functions as a mild, humorous insult, often implying that the person is being dense or socially inept. When used in this slang context, it is frequently shortened to just 膠.
Measure word
zung2種júngExamples
This box is made of hard plastic.
Related words
Common mistake
Be careful not to use this term in formal or professional settings, as the slang meaning is very common and can be considered rude or dismissive. If you are talking about actual materials in a manufacturing or engineering context, it is better to use specific terms like 亞加力膠 or 聚碳酸酯 to avoid ambiguity.
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.
