zi3 joek6 mong5 man4置若罔聞置若罔闻
Jyutpingzi3 joek6 mong5 man4
Yaleji yeuhk móhng màhn
Definition
To turn a deaf ear to; to pretend not to hear and completely ignore.
writtencommunicationpeople
How it's used
Carries a formal and slightly literary tone, often used in news reports or serious discussions to describe someone deliberately ignoring advice or criticism. It implies a sense of stubbornness or calculated indifference rather than simple lack of attention. Using it in casual conversation can sound overly dramatic or sarcastic.
Examples
I have told him many times, but he just turns a deaf ear to it.
Why does the government turn a deaf ear to so many complaints?
Related words
Common phrases
completely turn a deaf ear
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a common verb phrase, but it is a four character idiom that functions as a predicate. It cannot be modified by standard aspect markers like 咗 or 緊, so avoid saying 置若罔聞咗.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
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.
