sung1 mei5 sung1 jik6鬆尾鬆翼松尾松翼
Jyutpingsung1 mei5 sung1 jik6
Yalesūng méih sūng yihk
Definition
To behave arrogantly or show off despite being highly inexperienced.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This idiom vividly paints a picture of a bird puffing up its tail and wings to appear larger and more intimidating than it truly is. It is used to criticize someone who is arrogant or overconfident despite lacking the necessary skills or experience to back it up. The tone is mocking and dismissive, often used by seniors to put an inexperienced person in their place.
Examples
He just started the job and is already acting all high and mighty, he really has no idea what he is doing.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe someone who is simply confident or talented. It specifically targets the gap between the person's inflated self-image and their actual lack of substance or maturity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
