sou3 mui6 ping4 sang1素昧平生
Jyutpingsou3 mui6 ping4 sang1
Yalesou muih pìhng sāng
Definition
To have never met someone before; to be completely unacquainted.
writtenpeoplecommunication
How it's used
This is a formal idiom used to describe a complete lack of prior acquaintance. It carries a literary weight that makes it sound quite serious or dramatic in daily conversation. People often use it to emphasize that they have no obligation or connection to someone they are being asked to assist.
Examples
I have never met them before, why should I help them?
Although we were total strangers, we hit it off immediately.
Related words
Common phrases
a person one has never met
Common mistake
Learners often mistakenly use this in casual settings where a simple phrase like 唔識 would be more natural. It is not a phrase used for casual introductions but rather for clarifying a lack of history between parties.
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.
