nou5 seon2 mei6 saang1 maai4腦筍未生埋脑笋未生埋
Jyutpingnou5 seon2 mei6 saang1 maai4
Yalenóuh séun meih sāang màaih
Definition
Immature or childish; literally referring to an infant whose fontanelles have not yet closed.
colloquialpeoplebody
How it's used
This idiom refers to the soft spot on an infant's head that eventually hardens as they grow. Using it implies that the person is not just young in age, but lacks the life experience or mental maturity expected of an adult. It carries a slightly condescending or patronizing tone, often used by older people to dismiss the opinions of the younger generation.
Examples
He is still immature, don't hold it against him.
You are still so childish, how can you handle these big matters?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase in a professional setting or when speaking to someone you want to show respect to, as it is inherently insulting and suggests the person is incapable of serious thought.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
