oi3 lei5 bat1 lei5愛理不理爱理不理
Jyutpingoi3 lei5 bat1 lei5
Yaleoi léih bāt léih
Definition
Indifferent, cold, or dismissive toward someone or something.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom describes a specific attitude of coldness or dismissiveness where someone intentionally ignores or shows no interest in another person. It is often used to describe a change in behavior, such as when someone stops being enthusiastic or attentive. The structure implies a deliberate lack of engagement rather than just being busy or distracted.
Examples
He acts like he is completely indifferent towards me.
Related words
Common phrases
an indifferent attitude
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being quiet or shy. It carries a negative connotation of being aloof or rude, so it is not appropriate to use when describing someone who is naturally introverted.
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.
