zin6 mat6 dau3 kung4 jan4賤物鬥窮人贱物斗穷人
Jyutpingzin6 mat6 dau3 kung4 jan4
Yalejihn maht dau kùhng yàhn
Definition
A situation where prices plummet during widespread poverty, or when people are too poor to buy even cheap goods.
colloquialmoneyother
How it's used
This expression captures a grim economic reality where both the value of goods and the purchasing power of the public hit rock bottom simultaneously. It highlights a vicious cycle where sellers drop prices to attract customers who simply lack the money to spend, regardless of how cheap items become. It is often used in discussions about recession or stagnant local markets.
Examples
The economy is so bad that prices are crashing while everyone is broke, how can business survive?
Related words
Common phrases
a race to the bottom in a depressed market
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with simply saying things are cheap. It specifically implies a state of mutual struggle between the seller and the buyer, rather than just a good deal for the consumer.
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.
