bat1 jin4 ji4 jyu6不言而喻
Jyutpingbat1 jin4 ji4 jyu6
Yalebāt yìhn yìh yuh
Definition
Self-evident; understood without saying; goes without saying.
writtencommunicationdescriptions
How it's used
This idiom is a formal expression that feels slightly out of place in very casual, rapid-fire speech. While it is understood by everyone, native speakers often prefer more direct, colloquial alternatives like 心照 or 唔使講都知 to convey the same sentiment. It is most commonly used in writing or when someone wants to sound a bit more emphatic or serious about a situation being obvious.
Examples
The relationship between the two of them is really self-evident.
Related words
Common phrases
a self-evident truth
Common mistake
Learners often treat this as a standard adjective, but it functions more like a predicate. Avoid using it to describe simple physical objects, as it is reserved for abstract situations, unspoken agreements, or social dynamics.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
