zim1 zim1 zi6 hei2沾沾自喜
Jyutpingzim1 zim1 zi6 hei2
Yalejīm jīm jih héi
Definition
To be pleased with oneself; to feel smug or complacent.
colloquialemotiondescriptions
How it's used
This idiom carries a negative connotation of being overly satisfied with one's own achievements, often implying a lack of humility. It is frequently used to warn others against resting on their laurels or to criticize someone for being smug. Unlike simple happiness, it specifically highlights a sense of self-congratulation that others might find annoying.
Examples
He is complacent after winning just a little, it is really meaningless.
Don't get complacent just because you've achieved a little bit.
Related words
Common phrases
cannot help but feel complacent
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a positive expression of self-confidence, but it is almost exclusively used to describe a smug or complacent attitude that others dislike.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- 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.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
