ngaau4 dai2淆底
Jyutpingngaau4 dai2
Yalengàauh dái
Definition
To get cold feet; to be too scared to act.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Originating from Cantonese gambling slang, this term describes the moment someone loses their nerve or backs out of a challenge due to fear. It carries a slightly mocking tone, implying that the person is being cowardly or lacking confidence in a situation where they should be brave. It is frequently used among friends to encourage someone who is hesitating to take action.
Examples
I get scared whenever I see the boss and don't dare to talk to him.
Why are you so scared? Just go up and give it a try.
Related words
Common phrases
no need to be scared
scared into backing down
Common mistake
Do not use this for genuine, serious fear or phobias, as it specifically refers to a loss of nerve or backing down from a social or competitive challenge. It is strictly colloquial and should be avoided in formal or professional settings.
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.
