zou6 gwaan3 hat1 ji4 laan5 zou6 gun1做慣乞兒懶做官做惯乞儿懒做官
Jyutpingzou6 gwaan3 hat1 ji4 laan5 zou6 gun1
Yalejouh gwaan hāt yìh láahn jouh gūn
Definition
To be lazy and lack ambition, preferring to take it easy rather than work hard to make money or advance.
colloquialpeopledescriptions
How it's used
This proverb describes a mindset where someone has become so accustomed to a low-effort, low-reward lifestyle that the prospect of working harder for a better life feels like an unwelcome burden. It is often used to criticize someone who lacks ambition or is afraid of the responsibilities that come with success. The tone is usually admonishing or pitying, highlighting a stagnant state of comfort.
Examples
He is too used to his comfortable routine to take a promotion; he won't even consider changing jobs.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use this phrase to describe someone who is simply poor or struggling, as it specifically targets the psychological choice to remain in a state of ease rather than the lack of opportunity.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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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.
