saang1 haa1 gam2 tiu3生蝦咁跳生虾咁跳
Jyutpingsaang1 haa1 gam2 tiu3
Yalesāang hā gám tiu
Definition
To be extremely furious or highly agitated.
colloquialemotionslang
How it's used
This idiom vividly captures the image of a fresh shrimp jumping frantically when placed on a hot surface or out of water. It is exclusively used to describe someone who is reacting with extreme, often irrational, anger or agitation. It carries a slightly mocking tone, suggesting that the person's reaction is disproportionate or overly dramatic.
Examples
After being scolded, he immediately flew into a rage.
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply annoyed or mildly upset. It specifically implies a high-energy, explosive, or physically restless state of anger.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- 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.
