tung4 jin4 mou4 gei6童言無忌童言无忌
Jyutpingtung4 jin4 mou4 gei6
Yaletùhng yìhn mòuh geih
Definition
The belief that children speak without filter or malice, so adults should not take offense at their words.
colloquialpeoplecommunication
How it's used
Used primarily as a social buffer when a child says something blunt, awkward, or potentially offensive to an adult. It serves as a polite request for the listener to overlook the child's lack of social awareness or tact. It is rarely used to describe the child's own perspective, but rather as a defensive explanation provided by a parent or guardian.
Examples
Kids speak without filters, don't take it so seriously.
He was just speaking innocently, please don't take it to heart.
Common phrases
a remark excused as innocent
Common mistake
Avoid using this to excuse rude behavior from adults or teenagers, as it is strictly reserved for young children who lack social maturity. Applying it to someone older will sound sarcastic or condescending.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
