zaa3 din1 maai6 ngung6詐癲賣戇诈癫卖戆
Jyutpingzaa3 din1 maai6 ngung6
Yaleja dīn maaih nguhng
Definition
To pretend to be foolish, stupid, or mad to achieve a certain goal.
colloquialpeopledaily actions
How it's used
This expression carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that the person is being manipulative or insincere rather than just silly. It is often used to describe someone who feigns ignorance to avoid responsibility or to gain an advantage in a social situation. While similar to 扮傻, this phrase emphasizes the active, performative nature of the deception.
Examples
He is always playing the fool, he just wants to trick people.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply being stupid or having a mental condition. It is strictly used for intentional, strategic behavior where the person is fully aware of what they are doing.
Grammar color guide
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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.
