tiu4 tiu4 fang4條條揈条条轰
Jyutpingtiu4 tiu4 fang4
Yaletìuh tìuh fàhng
Definition
To dangle or swing loosely; to waste time or slack off.
- to dangle, sway, or swing back and forth
- slangto idle, loaf, or waste time
colloquialdaily actionspeople
How it's used
This expression vividly captures the image of someone swinging their arms or legs aimlessly, which metaphorically extends to someone who is idle or lacks a sense of purpose. It is often used to criticize someone who is wasting time instead of being productive. The phrase carries a slightly dismissive or impatient tone when used to describe someone who is not contributing to a task.
Examples
He is always slacking off and not doing any work at all.
Why are you still hanging around doing nothing? Get to work quickly!
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with physical swinging or dangling, as the idiomatic sense of being lazy or aimless is the primary usage in casual speech. It is not used to describe someone who is simply relaxing on their day off, but rather someone who is failing to fulfill their responsibilities.
Grammar color guide
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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.
