syu4 mak1薯嘜薯唛
Jyutpingsyu4 mak1
Yalesyùh māk
Definition
A foolish, clumsy, or naive person; a schmuck.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
Originating from the Yiddish word schmuck, this term describes someone who is socially awkward, naive, or unfashionable. It carries a lighthearted, teasing tone rather than being a harsh insult. You will often hear it used to describe someone who is being a bit of a klutz or who has made a silly mistake.
Examples
Why are you acting so goofy?
He is usually quite dorky, it does not seem like him to do this.
Related words
Common phrases
very dorky
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with being genuinely malicious or stupid. It specifically refers to a harmless, bumbling, or uncool quality, often related to someone's appearance or lack of social awareness.
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.
