o1 jyu4 fung6 sing4阿諛奉承阿谀奉承
Jyutpingo1 jyu4 fung6 sing4
Yaleō yùh fuhng sìhng
Definition
To flatter, fawn over, or curry favor with someone.
colloquialpeoplework
How it's used
Originating from the image of literally polishing someone's shoes to gain favor, this term captures the submissive and often performative nature of sycophancy. It is much more common in daily speech than the formal idiom 阿諛奉承, which sounds stiff and literary. Using it implies a critical or mocking stance toward the person doing the flattering.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this in professional or formal writing, as it is highly colloquial and carries a strong negative connotation. It is strictly used to describe someone else's behavior, not one's own.
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.
