taam1貪贪
Jyutpingtaam1
Yaletāam
Definition
To be greedy, covetous, or to desire something that does not belong to oneself.
colloquialemotionpeople
How it's used
Focuses on the desire to acquire more than one is entitled to or needs, often implying a lack of restraint. It is frequently used to describe someone who is overly focused on material gain or short-term benefits. When used with an adjective or noun, it indicates an obsession with that specific thing.
Examples
Don't be so greedy, leave some for others to eat.
He is always greedy for small gains, so nobody likes hanging out with him.
Related words
Common phrases
greedy for money
greedy for petty gains
greedy
Common mistake
Avoid using it to mean simply wanting something, as it carries a strong negative connotation of selfishness or lack of integrity. It is not used for neutral desires like wanting to eat or wanting to go home.
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.
