ning6佞
Jyutpingning6
Yalenihng
Definition
To flatter, or to be smooth-talking and eloquent.
writtenpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This character is rarely used in everyday speech and carries a strong negative connotation of being manipulative or insincere. It is often reserved for describing someone who uses flattery to gain personal advantage rather than someone who is genuinely charming. Because it is literary, you will encounter it more frequently in historical dramas or formal writing than in casual conversation.
Examples
He is a smooth talker who is always saying sweet things.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the common word 叻, which means clever or capable. While 叻 is a positive or neutral compliment, 佞 specifically implies a deceptive or cunning nature.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
