saang2 dou3 laap3 laap3 ling3省到立立令
Jyutpingsaang2 dou3 laap3 laap3 ling3
Yalesáang dou laap laap ling
Definition
To give someone a severe scolding or tongue-lashing.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This expression uses the imagery of polishing an object until it is sparkling clean to describe the intensity of a verbal scolding. It implies that the person being scolded was stripped of their dignity or left feeling completely exposed by the harshness of the criticism. It is almost exclusively used to describe being on the receiving end of a superior's or an angry person's rage.
Examples
You did something wrong, of course Mom gave you a severe telling-off.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe a constructive or gentle critique, as it specifically denotes a harsh, one-sided, and aggressive verbal attack. It is also not used to describe the act of cleaning physical objects, despite the literal meaning.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
