noi6 keoi5 m4 ho4奈佢唔何奈渠唔何
Jyutpingnoi6 keoi5 m4 ho4
Yalenoih kéuih m̀h hòh
Definition
Unable to do anything to someone; to be powerless against someone.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
This expression is used when someone is frustrated by a situation where they lack the power or authority to change another person's behavior. It carries a sense of helplessness or resignation, often implying that the person in question is stubborn, protected, or simply untouchable. It is a set phrase that functions as a verb phrase and cannot be broken up by other particles.
Examples
He is always late, and I can do nothing about it.
The boss decided this way, can you really do anything about it?
Related words
Common phrases
completely unable to do anything about him
Common mistake
Learners often try to insert pronouns or objects in the middle of the phrase, but it must remain as a fixed unit. It is also strictly used for situations involving people, so do not use it to describe inanimate problems or technical difficulties.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
