sai3 daam2細膽细胆
Jyutpingsai3 daam2
Yalesai dáam
Definition
Timid, faint-hearted, or cowardly; lacking the courage to overcome fear.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
Describes someone who is easily frightened or lacks the nerve to face challenges. It is frequently used in casual settings to tease friends about their lack of bravery, especially regarding heights, horror movies, or insects. Unlike formal terms for cowardice, this carries a slightly softer, more personal tone.
Examples
He is very timid; he ran away immediately upon seeing a cockroach.
You are so faint-hearted, how can you dare to go to the haunted house?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 膽細, which is a grammatically different structure that is not standard in Cantonese. Always keep the adjective before the noun component when using this specific compound.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
