zi1 maa4 luk6 dau2芝麻綠豆芝麻绿豆
Jyutpingzi1 maa4 luk6 dau2
Yalejī màh luhk dáu
Definition
Trivial, insignificant, or trifling matter.
colloquialdescriptions
How it's used
Used to describe matters that are so small they are barely worth mentioning or worrying about. It carries a dismissive tone, often implying that the person focusing on these details is wasting their time or being overly pedantic. It functions as an adjective phrase and is frequently followed by 嘅 to modify a noun.
Examples
Stop arguing over such trivial matters.
Why are you so nervous about such insignificant things?
Related words
Common phrases
trivial matters
Common mistake
Do not use this to describe something that is physically small in size, like a tiny insect or a small pebble. It is strictly reserved for abstract concepts like tasks, problems, or arguments that lack importance.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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.
