wui4 mau4 jat1 siu3回眸一笑
Jyutpingwui4 mau4 jat1 siu3
Yalewùih màuh yāt siu
Definition
To look back and smile, typically describing a beautiful woman.
writtendescriptionspeople
How it's used
This is a literary idiom that describes a classic, elegant beauty. It is rarely used in casual, everyday conversation unless one is intentionally being poetic, dramatic, or slightly sarcastic about someone's appearance. It carries a strong sense of historical romance and traditional aesthetics.
Examples
She turned back and smiled, truly charming many people.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb phrase, but it is a set idiom. Do not try to use it to describe a normal, casual look back, as it implies a specific, captivating charm.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
