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Definition
To feel free from all worries, or to gloat over someone else's misfortune.
- carefree; free from all worries
- slangto gloat over someone else's misfortune; schadenfreude
How it's used
This expression vividly captures the feeling of being completely detached and unbothered by someone else's trouble, often implying a sense of smug satisfaction. It is almost exclusively used to criticize someone for lacking empathy or for taking pleasure in another person's bad luck. The imagery suggests a state of being so carefree that even the tips of one's hair feel cool and relaxed, contrasting sharply with the heat of the other person's crisis.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a literal description of being physically cool or refreshed. It is strictly a figurative idiom used to describe a negative social behavior, so using it to describe actual weather or physical comfort will cause confusion.
Grammar color guide
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.
