sik6 lo4 si1食螺螄食螺蛳
Jyutpingsik6 lo4 si1
Yalesihk lòh sī
Definition
To stumble over one's words or trip over one's tongue.
colloquialcommunicationpeople
How it's used
This idiom vividly describes the feeling of having one's speech tangled up, much like a snail shell. It is frequently used when someone is nervous, tired, or trying to speak too quickly. It carries a slightly playful or informal tone, making it perfect for teasing friends who stutter or stumble over their words during a presentation or conversation.
Examples
Why are you tripping over your words?
He trips over his tongue whenever he gets nervous and cannot speak.
Related words
Common phrases
to stumble over one's words while speaking
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal eating, as it has nothing to do with food. It is strictly a metaphorical expression for speech errors and should not be used to describe actual eating habits.
Grammar color guide
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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.
