Definition
穷光蛋 is a derogatory and colloquial term for a person who is extremely poor. The literal meaning is 'poor bare egg' — '光蛋' refers to a bare egg with nothing, implying having no money or possessions. It is used to describe someone destitute, often with contempt or pity. Avoid using it to someone's face as it is insulting.
n.
(derogatory, colloquial) pauperpoor wretchextremely poor person
Examples
- ，穷光蛋。Tā yǐqián shì gè fùwēng, xiànzài biàn chéng le yí gè qióng guāng dàn.He used to be a rich man, now he's become a pauper.
- 穷光蛋，。Bié yòng qióng guāng dàn zhè zhǒng cí mà rén, hěn bù lǐmào.Don't use a word like 'pauper' to insult people; it's very rude.
- 穷光蛋，。Suīrán wǒ shì gè qióng guāng dàn, dàn wǒ huó de hěn kuàilè.Although I'm a poor wretch, I live very happily.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.