sau6 jyun5 m4 sau6 ngaang6受軟唔受硬受软唔受硬
Jyutpingsau6 jyun5 m4 sau6 ngaang6
Yalesauh yúhn m̀h sauh ngaahng
Definition
To respond to gentle persuasion or kindness but resist coercion or force.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This expression describes a personality type that resists aggressive pressure or threats but remains open to gentle persuasion or negotiation. It is frequently used when giving advice on how to handle a stubborn or sensitive individual. The phrase highlights the effectiveness of emotional intelligence over brute force in interpersonal conflicts.
Examples
You really shouldn't scold him; he responds to kindness, not force.
Related words
Common phrases
to have a personality that responds to soft but not hard tactics
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply weak or submissive. It specifically refers to a person who has a strong sense of autonomy and will only cooperate when they feel respected rather than intimidated.
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.
