saang2 dou3 laap6 laap6 ling4㨘到立立呤擤到立立呤
Jyutpingsaang2 dou3 laap6 laap6 ling4
Yalesáang dou laahp laahp lìhng
Definition
To polish something until it shines, or to get severely scolded.
- to polish something until it shines
- slangto get a severe scolding or bollocking
colloquialdescriptionsdaily actions
How it's used
This expression uses the vivid imagery of a surface reflecting light to describe either a high degree of cleanliness or the intensity of a verbal reprimand. When used for scolding, it implies that the person being scolded is being 'polished' or 'scrubbed' by the boss's harsh words until they are left feeling exposed or humbled. It is a highly expressive, idiomatic way to describe both physical states and social interactions.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse the literal meaning of polishing an object with the metaphorical meaning of scolding someone. The context of the sentence will usually make it clear whether you are talking about cleaning or being in trouble.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
