si5 kui2市儈市侩
Jyutpingsi5 kui2
Yalesíh kúi
Definition
Materialistic, philistine, and money-minded; obsessing over financial gain and avoiding loss at all costs.
colloquialpeoplemoney
How it's used
Describes someone who views social interactions or personal relationships primarily through a lens of financial gain or loss. It carries a strong negative connotation of being narrow minded and lacking in generosity or culture. While it focuses on money, it specifically targets the attitude of being overly calculating rather than just being poor or frugal.
Examples
He is so materialistic, he has to calculate everything he does.
Don't be so stingy when doing business, you will drive the customers away.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply thrifty or careful with their budget. It implies a moral failing or a lack of character, not just a practical approach to saving money.
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.
