ngan3 ngan3 goek3䟴䟴腳䟴䟴脚
Jyutpingngan3 ngan3 goek3
Yalengan ngan geuk
Definition
To live in leisure and care-free comfort.
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
Often carries a slightly critical or envious undertone when describing someone who is idle while others are busy. It visually evokes the image of someone sitting in a chair with one leg crossed over the other, rhythmically bouncing their foot. While it can mean genuine relaxation, it is frequently used to imply a lack of responsibility or an unearned sense of ease.
Examples
Coming home after work and relaxing while watching TV is the best.
Related words
Common phrases
to live a carefree life
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply shaking your leg out of nervousness or habit, which is often considered rude or bad luck in traditional Chinese culture. When used as a verb phrase for relaxation, it specifically refers to a state of leisure, not the physical act of fidgeting.
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.
