ngan1 pei4韌皮韧皮
Jyutpingngan1 pei4
Yalengān pèih
Definition
Naughty, stubborn, or thick-skinned, typically describing a child who refuses to behave.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Originally referring to the tough, fibrous bark of a tree, this term is now used metaphorically to describe someone, usually a child, who is stubborn or resistant to discipline. It carries a slightly frustrated tone, implying that the person is difficult to influence or 'soften up' through scolding. Unlike general words for naughty, it specifically highlights a lack of responsiveness to authority.
Examples
This kid is so thick-skinned, he won't listen no matter what you say.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe physical toughness or resilience in a positive sense, as it almost exclusively carries a negative connotation of being obstinate or uncooperative.
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.
