sik6 wong2 mai5食枉米
Jyutpingsik6 wong2 mai5
Yalesihk wóng máih
Definition
A slacker; an unproductive or useless person who wastes resources.
colloquialpeopleslang
How it's used
This expression literally refers to eating rice in vain, implying that the person consumes resources without contributing anything of value in return. It carries a strong, critical tone and is typically used to scold someone for being lazy or unproductive. It is far more biting than simply calling someone lazy, as it questions their very right to be fed or supported.
Examples
You only know how to sleep all day, you are truly a useless slacker.
He works so slowly, he is simply a complete waste of space.
Related words
Common phrases
simply a total slacker
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is merely tired or having an off day, as it is a harsh insult aimed at someone's character or general lack of work ethic. It is not a casual way to say someone is unproductive.
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.
