ngok6 jyu4 leoi6鱷魚淚鳄鱼泪
Jyutpingngok6 jyu4 leoi6
Yalengohk yùh leuih
Definition
Crocodile tears; a hypocritical display of sadness, sympathy, or regret.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
This expression is used exclusively to describe insincere displays of emotion, particularly when someone is trying to manipulate others by appearing victimized or sorrowful. It is frequently paired with verbs like 扮 or 流 to emphasize the performative nature of the act. Unlike formal or literary terms for hypocrisy, this carries a sharp, mocking tone that directly calls out the person's dishonesty.
Examples
Stop putting on a show of crocodile tears, it's so fake.
Related words
Common phrases
to put on a show of crocodile tears
to shed crocodile tears
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe genuine sadness, even if the person is crying excessively. It is an accusation of deception, so using it in a serious or sympathetic context will sound extremely offensive or sarcastic.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
