baa2 hei3把戲把戏
Jyutpingbaa2 hei3
Yalebá hei
Definition
Tricks, acrobatics, or deceitful stunts.
- datedacrobatics; juggling
- figurativetricks; cheap stunts; schemes
colloquialpeopleother
How it's used
Focuses on deceitful or manipulative behavior rather than literal magic or circus performances. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying that the person is being dishonest or trying to manipulate a situation for their own benefit. Use it when you suspect someone is hiding their true intentions behind a facade.
Measure word
zung3種jungExamples
These low-level tricks cannot fool me.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 魔法 or 魔術, which refer to actual magic tricks or illusions performed for entertainment. 把戲 is almost exclusively used to describe manipulative schemes or dishonest tactics.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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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.
