sing6 neoi5剩女
Jyutpingsing6 neoi5
Yalesihng néuih
Definition
Leftover woman; a derogatory term for a single, unmarried middle-aged woman.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Derived from the idea of food being left over, this term carries a strong derogatory and sexist undertone. It implies that a woman who remains unmarried past a certain age is somehow undesirable or 'expired' goods. Using this label is widely considered offensive and judgmental in modern social contexts.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
She doesn't want to be a single middle-aged woman, but she just hasn't met the right person.
Why do you keep calling people 'leftover women'? That's very rude.
Related words
Common phrases
to label as a leftover woman
Common mistake
Avoid using this term to describe anyone, as it is inherently insulting. It is not a neutral way to say 'single woman' and will likely cause offense if used in conversation.
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.
