syu2 sit3 gau2 tau1鼠竊狗偷鼠窃狗偷
Jyutpingsyu2 sit3 gau2 tau1
Yalesyú sit gáu tāu
Definition
To pilfer; to commit petty theft like rats and dogs.
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
This idiom carries a strong sense of moral condemnation, describing petty theft that is considered shameful or beneath one's dignity. It is typically used to criticize someone's character rather than just the act of stealing itself. Because it is a four-character idiom, it sounds more formal or literary than everyday slang, even when used in casual speech to express disdain.
Examples
He is always pilfering, he is really hopeless.
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of animals, but it is strictly a metaphor for human behavior. Do not use it to describe professional burglary or grand larceny, as it specifically highlights the petty and cowardly nature of the thief.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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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.
