nik1 oi3溺愛溺爱
Jyutpingnik1 oi3
Yalenīk oi
Definition
To spoil, dote on, or excessively pamper someone by giving in to unreasonable demands.
colloquialfamilypeople
How it's used
This term carries a strong negative connotation, implying that the affection provided is excessive and ultimately harmful to the recipient's character. It is frequently used in discussions about parenting or relationships where boundaries have been completely eroded. Unlike simple expressions of love, it suggests a lack of discipline and an inability to say no to unreasonable demands.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the more neutral or positive term 寵愛, which can simply mean to love or favor someone. Use 溺愛 only when you want to criticize the behavior as being detrimental or overindulgent.
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.
