siu2 gaa1 zung2小家種小家种
Jyutpingsiu2 gaa1 zung2
Yalesíu gā júng
Definition
Stingy, petty, or narrow-minded.
colloquialpeopleemotion
How it's used
Carries a strong sense of personal disdain, often used to criticize someone for being petty or lacking generosity in social situations. It implies a character flaw rather than just a temporary lack of funds. The term is specifically directed at people who obsess over trivial amounts of money or display a small-minded attitude toward others.
Examples
He is so stingy, he won't even buy someone a glass of water.
Do you have to be so petty, arguing over just a few dollars?
Related words
Common mistake
Avoid using this to describe someone who is simply frugal or thrifty, as it carries a negative, insulting tone. It is strictly for criticizing someone's character for being unreasonably cheap or narrow-minded.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
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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.
