zaa3 giu1詐嬌诈娇
Definition
To pretend to be cute, often acting like a baby or talking in a soft voice, to gain sympathy or attention.
How it's used
Often carries a slightly negative or critical connotation, implying that the behavior is calculated or manipulative rather than genuine. While it can describe a child's natural behavior, it is most frequently used to describe an adult woman who is intentionally acting helpless or overly sweet to get her way. It is distinct from simply being cute, as it specifically highlights the performative aspect of seeking favor or indulgence.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being cute or sweet, as 詐嬌 implies a level of artifice or manipulation. It is almost exclusively used to describe behavior directed toward someone else to gain a specific advantage or emotional response.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
