siu2 hon3小看
Jyutpingsiu2 hon3
Yalesíu hon
Definition
To look down on, belittle, or underestimate someone.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While 小看 is understood, native speakers almost exclusively use 睇小 in daily conversation. The structure 睇小 is a separable verb, meaning you can insert aspect markers like 咗 or particles like 唔 between 睇 and 小. It carries a slightly more personal or emotional weight than the more formal 輕視.
Related words
Common phrases
do not look down on
to be looked down upon by others
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use 小看 as a direct translation of the Mandarin term, which sounds unnatural in spoken Cantonese. Always prefer 睇小 to sound like a local.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
