ngoi6 fu2 gam2 ngoi6外父咁外
Jyutpingngoi6 fu2 gam2 ngoi6
Yalengoih fú gám ngoih
Definition
To get in the way; to be a hindrance.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This expression is a playful, idiomatic way to describe someone who is physically or metaphorically in the way. It relies on the phonetic similarity between the word for father-in-law and the colloquial concept of being obstructive, creating a humorous, slightly exasperated tone. It is most commonly used when someone is cluttering a workspace or blocking a path during a task.
Examples
Move to the side, you are being a real hindrance.
He is being such a nuisance there, how can we get anything done well?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this in formal settings or with people you do not know well, as it can sound dismissive or rude. It is strictly a colloquial expression and should never be confused with the literal term for a father-in-law.
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.
