ngau4 gou1牛皋
Jyutpingngau4 gou1
Yalengàuh gōu
Definition
Uncivilized, rough, or unreasonable in behavior.
colloquialdescriptionspeople
How it's used
Describes someone who acts in an unreasoning, stubborn, or physically forceful manner without regard for social norms or consequences. It carries a strong sense of disapproval, implying that the person is being uncivilized or difficult to communicate with. Unlike words for simple stubbornness, this suggests a lack of refinement or a tendency to bulldoze through situations.
Examples
Don't be so reckless in your work, listen to what others have to say.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with the historical figure Niu Gao, a general from the Song Dynasty, as the modern Cantonese usage is purely a descriptive adjective for behavior and has no connection to the historical person.
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.
