baai2 soeng5 toi4擺上檯摆上台
Definition
To put someone on the spot or throw them under the bus; to openly push someone into an undesirable situation.
How it's used
This expression uses the imagery of placing an object on a table to be scrutinized or used by others, implying that the person is being made a target or a tool for someone else's agenda. It carries a strong sense of betrayal or unfair treatment, often used when someone is forced to take responsibility for a mistake or perform a difficult task publicly. The phrase is highly idiomatic and specifically refers to social or professional situations where one's reputation is compromised.
Examples
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with literal placement of objects on a table. It is strictly used for interpersonal dynamics and social maneuvering, so using it to describe putting a physical item on a table will sound nonsensical to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
