san1 giu1 juk6 gwai3身嬌肉貴身娇肉贵
Definition
Pampered and fragile; having a delicate body and high social status that makes one overly sensitive or averse to hardship.
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of irony or sarcasm when used to describe someone who is overly delicate or unwilling to endure hardship. It implies that the person acts as if they are made of porcelain or gold, often suggesting they are spoiled or lack resilience. It is frequently used to tease someone who is complaining about minor physical discomfort or avoiding manual tasks.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of someone's physical health, but it is almost exclusively used to comment on a person's attitude or their sheltered upbringing. Using it to describe someone who is genuinely ill or physically fragile can sound rude or insensitive.
Grammar color guide
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.
